Define spontaneous observation.
Observing behaviour when it happens, without having a predetermined behaviour in mind.
Example: Observing a child during outdoor play to find out what they are interested in.
Define targeted observation.
The observer is watch for specific behaviours and noting their presence, absence, or frequency. The observer may also be watching for contextual factors that may be influencing or triggering the behaviour.
Example: Watching to see when and how often a child shows aggressive behaviour.
What do you need to be aware of when preparing to observe?
- Who
- What
- When
- Where
- Why
- How
- Age of the child
Define spectator mode.
The observer watched as unobtrusively as possible and does not interact with the child. 8’ a child care setting, this would mean and educator would need to be replaced while doing the observation.
Define participant mode.
The observer gathers information about what they see and hear while interacting with the child and/or others.
What are some things to consider when observing?
- Is the child in a comfortable, familiar environment?
- In the child well rested and feeling well?
- Is the observer known to the child?
- Has the child recently experienced a change in their life?
- Are there other factors that might influence the child’s behaviour (weather, time change, special events)
What type of record is this?
- Formal, written record documented in real time
- Documents as much objective detail as possible
- May be quite lengthy ( 1+ pages)
- Often, but not always fine at a predetermined time
- Used spectator mode of observation
- Often accompanied by contextual
Running Record
What type of record is this?
- Less formal, written record, often document soon after the behaviour occurs
- Focuses on a significant event or series of events
- Usually shorter
- Usually down spontaneously, when the observer noticed something interesting or significant
- Accompanied by an interpretation
Anecdotal Record
What is the purpose of a running record?
- To record a child’s learning experience over time and in present tense
- Chronological, series of observations in sequence: minutes, hours, days or weeks
- Helps to notice for patterns or themes related to child’s development/learning
- Focus on one child during various times for short time frames, throughout a day, weeks…etc
- Typically in non-participant observer approach
Define ABC Analysis.
A method for observing specific, behaviours and identifying potential triggers and reinforcements. It is most often used for problem behaviours but it can also be used to try and increase positive behaviour.
What is the ABC of ABC Analysis.
A - Antecedent (what happened before the behaviour)
B - Behaviour
C - Consequence (what happened after the behaviour)
What are the four features of pedagogical documentation?
- Involves a specific question that guides the process
- Involves collectively analyzing, interpreting, and evaluating individual or group observations (multiple perspectives)
- Makes use of multiple languages (different ways of representing and expressing thinking in various media and symbol systems)
- It’s retrospective and prospective (reflective and shapes the design of future contexts for learning)
