4: Observation, Documentation, and Assessment
- Develop observational skills that will form the foundation of working effectively with young children.
As discussed in chapter 2, the field of early care and education relies on developmental and learning theories to guide our practices. Not only do theories help us to better understand a child’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs, theories help us to see each child as a unique learner and can also help us to set appropriate expectations. With the information we uncover by watching and listening to children, we can provide developmentally appropriate learning opportunities so they can thrive. In this chapter, we will examine how observation techniques are used to connect theory principles to practical applications. In other words, we will explore how teachers can incorporate observation, documentation, and assessment into their daily routines in order to effectively work with children and their families.
In the field of early care and education, the pursuit of high-quality care is a top priority. Throughout the day, preschool teachers have numerous tasks and responsibilities. In addition to providing a safe and nurturing environment, teachers must plan effective curriculum, assess development, decorate the classroom, stock the shelves with age-appropriate materials, and they must develop respectful relationships with children and their families. So you might be wondering, what does this all have to do with observation, documentation, and assessment? To effectively support a child’s development and to help them thrive, preschool teachers are expected to be accountable and intentional with every interaction and experience. Let’s take a closer look and examine how teachers utilize observation, documentation, and assessment to maintain a high-quality learning environment.
How would you define observation? Compare your definition to the one below.
According to Gordon and Browne (2016) “Observing is more than ordinary supervision. It takes energy and concentration to become an accurate observer.” [36] It also takes time and practice to learn how to distinguish the difference between trivial details and detailed data. Once teachers master objective observation techniques and they can recognize their own biases , they are ready to conduct purposeful observations and support children’s play, learning, growth, and development.
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- 4.1: Standards and Competencies
- This chapter addresses the NAEYC Standards for observing, documenting, and assessing to support young children, as well as professional development. It also covers California Early Childhood Educator Competencies, including areas such as child development, cultural diversity, family engagement, health, curriculum, and professionalism. Additionally, the chapter touches on the NAEYC Code of Ethical Conduct, highlighting ethical responsibilities towards children, families, colleagues, and society.
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- 4.2: The Purpose of Observation
- The text emphasizes the importance of regular and systematic observation for early childhood educators to improve teaching practices, plan effective curriculum, assess children???s development, and partner with families. It outlines methods such as maintaining objectivity in observation, documenting evidence through tools like running records, anecdotal notes, developmental checklists, and using portfolios and learning stories for assessment.
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- 4.3: Partnerships with Families
- The page emphasizes the importance of sharing observations between children's families and educational programs to strengthen the home-program connection. By providing opportunities for families to enhance their observation skills and share assessments with educational staff, a holistic approach to planning learning experiences is achieved. This exchange can occur in informal settings, like brief conversations during drop-offs, or formal ones, such as home visits and conferences.
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- 4.4: In Closing
- To work effectively with children and families, teachers need to efficiently employ observation, documentation, and assessment. The cycle of assessment aids in enhancing teaching practices, curriculum planning, and evaluating children's development. Families are partners in this process, and effective communication is crucial. Chapter 5 will further delve into using observation to understand and define the unique stages of a child's development.