Assignment 1: Observation Reflection

For this Assignment, you
will put theory into practice by using your research from Week 4 Assignment 1
to guide you. Traditionally, observation has been one of the most used types of
assessments in early childhood. This has both benefits and limitations. One
serious issue with observation is assumption by the observer. This often occurs
when there is no clear purpose established before the
observation. In other words, a specific purpose for the observation has not
been established.
By examining two
different age groups for the same skill or developmental area, you can make
comparisons on not only the area observed, but also on the effectiveness of the
assessment(s). As educators, you must be cognizant of the strengths and
weaknesses of the assessments you use, as well as their intended purpose. There
is no one-size-fits-all in early childhood education.
To prepare:
·
Before completing your
observations, review the Required Media found in the Learning
Resources of this module.
·
Research, then select or create an
instrument based on your research used for observing children at play to
identify a selected skill, developmental area, or other. Use this instrument
during your observations. You may elect to use the same instrument, if
appropriate, or select an instrument for each grade group, but this instrument
should measure the same skill or area for both groups (total of two
instruments, one for the younger group and one for the older group).
Upon completion of your
observations:
·
Reflect on your observation of two different
children at play. What developmental or emerging content knowledge did you
note? How do you know this is accurate?
·
Examine your notes and reflect on
the content. Were these accurate facts or were personal thoughts and feelings
reflected? How could you improve your personal observations?
Submit an analysis that addresses the following:
·
What were the strengths
and weaknesses of the instrument(s) you found or created for observing play?
·
Should the instruments
have been modified? Why or why not?
·
How could you share this
information with families or with colleagues as a teacher leader?
·
Clearly identify the
purpose of the observation and explain how you considered culturally responsive
practice.
·
How do you know your assessment
practices are fair and equitable?
·
How do you know this is
developmentally appropriate (DAP)?
·
How do you target skills
to be assessed?
·
How do you schedule
assessments, and what are these (content)?
Complete a 2- to 3-page analysis using your research,
and include a copy of the selected instrument. Page length does not include
title page, reference page, or instrument for assessment.
Cite your
research and provide appropiate references in APA format to substantiate your
thinking.

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