Opportunities
Our center is a valuable instructional resource on the Purdue West Lafayette campus. We provide the following volunteer and paid opportunities:
(All applications can be emailed to mcdls@purdue.edu )
Artist-in-Residence
The center invites applications from artists at different levels of professionalism to provide regular (once or twice per week) learning opportunities for the children, for example, music, dance, choir, painting, and any other form of art. Download the Artist-in-Residence application here
Student Administrative Internship
A student administrative internship provides an opportunity to participate in and learn the leadership aspects of administration in an early childhood setting. This unique opportunity will allow the student intern to gain experience in mentoring, coaching, and supervising staff as well as the daily operational needs of the program. Download the Student Administrative Internship application here
Student Employment
Download the Student Employment application here
Volunteers
Learn about young children and quality childcare programs while having fun! Assist teachers with recreation, arts, outdoor play, singing, or indoor games. Volunteers are expected to maintain a regular schedule and complete the semester.
Download the Student Volunteer application here
Download the Non-Student Volunteer application here
Research
MCDLS is actively involved with faculty members and students on campus in generating knowledge and developing innovative educational practices. It provides an excellent resource for the study of the child in the context of the family and community. Research projects have involved the development of research instruments, masters’ and doctoral theses, pilot efforts leading to outside funding, and full-scale studies. Investigations have focused on a range of topics related to the development of social and cognitive abilities; the creation and management of early education environments; and relationships between teachers, children, and families. The research component is coordinated so that interference or disruptions of the educational program are minimized.