CDA 121 - Techniques for Observing Children

1. Compare the purpose, value and use of formal and informal observation methods (NAEYC 1c, 3a, 3b, 3c, 4b).
2. Apply understanding of children’s development when interpreting assessment data (NAEYC 1a, 1b, 1c,  2c, 4b, 5c).
3. Create a developmentally appropriate curriculum to promote family involvement that honors diversity of culture, language, abilities and economics using the information acquired from observations and assessments (NAEYC 2a, 2b, 2c, 6b, 6d, 6e).
4. Share information from observations and assessments with parents and appropriate educational support resources within the community (NAEYC 1a, 1b, 1c, 2a, 2b, 2c, 6b, 6d).

1. Observation Instruments
   1. Anecdotal
   2. Checklists and rating scales
   3. Event sampling
   4. Frequency and duration counts
   5. Running records
   6. Work sampling/portfolios/photographic images
   7. Video and audio taping
2. Assessment Fundamental Principles
   1. Fundamental principles
      1. Child growth and development, including domains
      2. Key theorists and Ideas
      3. Developmental checklists and milestone charts
   2. Interpretation
   3. Play
   4. Standardized
3. Observation-Based Curriculum Planning
   1. Developmentally appropriate practices
   2. Whole and individualized learning
   3. Culture and diversity
4. Sharing Observations and Assessments Professionally
   1. Parent involvement
      1. Perspective
      2. Subjectivity
   2. Resources and referrals