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4.6: Objective Versus Subjective Observation Evidence

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    291530
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    Intentional teachers must learn how to write objective observations. As you observe, it is best to write down all that you see and hear, and report just the facts. It takes practice to learn how to separate facts from opinions. Here are some helpful tips for you to review.

    Table 4.6.1: Objective Observations vs. Subjective Observations

    Objective Observations Subjective Observations

    Objective observations are based on what we observed using our senses. We record exactly what we see, hear, taste, touch, and smell.

    Subjective observations are often influenced by our past events, personal experiences and opinions, and can be biased based on our cultural backgrounds.

    Objective information is based on the facts we gather. If we don't see it, we don't report it. We report only details and provide vivid descriptions.

    Subjective information is based on our opinions, assumptions, personal beliefs, prejudiced feelings, or can be based on suspicions, rumors, and guesses.
    Results are more likely to be valid and reliable from child to child. Results are often inconsistent and vary from child to child.
    Objective information tells us what the child is actually doing or saying, usually beginning with "(Child's name) is ...." Subjective terms to avoid: just, because, but, always, never, can't, I think, happy, smart, helpful, pretty, angry, shy, likes, loves, hates, sad.
    Example: "Jax takes five steps towards the door and pushes it with his left hand. It closes and a loud bang is heard. Jax's eyes widen as he turns and looks to his mom." Example: "Jax walks towards the door and slams it closed. He is frightened that he is in trouble with his mom."

    Contributions from

    Michelle Sands, Northern Illinois University


    This page titled 4.6: Objective Versus Subjective Observation Evidence was last modified on Sun, 17 May 2026 18:37:07 GMT and is shared under a CC BY 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Gina Peterson and Emily Elam.

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