DESCRIPTION
This module presents the topic of observation and developmental assessment in an early childhood classroom, which includes an understanding of the purposes and uses of observation and developmental assessment.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
- describe the cycle of observation and assessment
- identify the uses of observations and assessment;
- identify some types of observations and assessments;
- communicate with families regarding the development of their child(ren) including any potential challenges or developmental delays.
HANDOUT
Observation and Assessment Handout
RESOURCES
Books
Spotlight on Young Children: Observation and Assessment, Volume 2. Hilary Seitz. NAEYC. 2024
Articles
Changes In How We See Children. Early Childhood Exchange July/August 2011
http://www.exchangepress.com/article/changes-in-how-we-see-children/5020020/
Observation: The Primary Tool in Assessment. Early Childhood Information Exchange
https://www.exchangepress.com/library/5011250.pdf
DAP: Observing, Documenting, and Assessing Children’s Development and Learning. NAEYC
https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/dap/assessing-development
Using Observation to Guide Your Teaching
https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/tyc/fall2022/observation-guides-teaching
Reframing the Assessment Discussion
https://www.naeyc.org/sites/default/files/globally-shared/downloads/PDFs/resources/pubs/spotlight-obs-assess-jones.pdf
Websites
NAEYC – Assessment
https://www.naeyc.org/resources/topics/assessment
Gowrie NSW
https://www.gowriensw.com.au/thought-leadership/observation-in-childcare
Videos
Organizing for Assessment in Early Care and Education. First 5 California: https://youtu.be/hfHERCVabwE
Best Practices in Family Engagement by Sheltering Arms: https://youtu.be/RgdUvQ6sRSI?si=g5twVPCvYOmfcj9B (a specific center’s approach)
Examples and Templates
Template: Running Record
Example: Running Record
Template: Anecdotal Records
Example: Anecdotal Records
Example: https://pathways.org/all-ages/milestones/
FOR FURTHER STUDY
Martin Luther College Courses
EDU8113 Assessment of Young Children
