Synopses & Reviews
Written by a prolific, well-respected author, this book teaches how to observe, document, and assess children's development and progress—emphasizing how powerful ethical, responsible observation can be in a teacher's professional life. Focusing on observations as an intrinsic part of authentic assessment, the author advocates a protective, respectful attitude toward it. Provides an overview of various informal and formal observation and assessment strategies, as well as instruction in how to embed observation into the daily routine of the early childhood classroom. Explores ways to prevent problems, ways to solve problems, and ways to work cooperatively with parents. Included is coverage of the ethics of observation and the pros and cons of standardized testing as it relates to observation and assessment. For early childhood teachers.
Table of Contents
I. THE POWER, PROCESS, AND ETHICS OF OBSERVATION IN EARLY CHILDHOOD. 1. The Power of Observation in Early Childhood. 2. The Ethics and Process of Observation.
II. METHODS OF OBSERVING AND DOCUMENTING PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD. 3. Anecdotal Records: A Short Narrative Method of Observation.
4. Running Records: A Longer Narrative Method of Observation.
5. Checklists and Rating Scales: Non-Narrative Methods for Observing Development and Progress.
6. Document and Report Development and Progress: Children's Products, Observation Reports, and Portfolios.
III. USING OBSERVATION. 7. Observing Behavior: Cracking the Code.
8. Use an Eclectic Approach to Observe Development: Motor and Cognitive Development.
9. Use the Eclectic Approach to Observe Emotional and Social Development.
10. Using Observation to Prevent and Solve Problems.
11. Using Observation to Become a Reflective Practitioner.
Appendix A: Suggestions for Organizing Periodic and Final Observation Reports.
Appendix B: Suggested Items to Look for in Observing a Play Material or Activity.
Appendix C: Reproducible Observation Forms.