What is observation?
- Specific methods for gathering and recording data about children and their behaviour
- A tool to understand and plan for children’s growth and development
- A way of looking and listening that informs ECEs
What are the steps of the Cycle of Observation?
- Observe
- Document
- Reflect
- Plan
- Implement
What is observation in the Cycle of Observation?
Regular observation of children as individuals and as a group
What is documentation in the Cycle of Observation?
Written notes, pictures, and work samples
What is reflection in the Cycle of Observation?
Making connections between what was observed and potential action
What is planning in the Cycle of Observation?
Planning for learning experiences, interactions, behaviour guidance, learning objectives, classroom changes, referrals…
What is implementation in the Cycle of Observation?
Putting the plan into action
What is appreciative inquiry?
- Seeks to make improvements
- Recognizes and builds on strengths and assets
What is pedagogical documentation?
A process for using observations to inform pedagogy
Define ethics.
Moral principles that govern a person’s behaviour
What is confidentiality?
Keeping personal information about children and their families private unless given the consent of a parent or legal guardian
What are two limits to confidentiality?
The risk of imminent harm or legal proceedings
What is consent?
- Given in writing
- Freely given, ongoing and reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific
Define assent.
A child’s expression of approval.
What are the 5 forms of bias?
- Leniency error
- Severity error
- Central tendency error
- Expectancy or logical error
- Observational Drift
Describe the leniency error as a form of bias.
Over generosity in rating a child’s behaviour and actions
Describe the severity error as a form of bias.
Negative bias towards a child.
Describe the central tendency error as a form of bias.
All children are observed and rated in the same way
Describe the expectancy or logical error as a form of bias.
Associating two differing but similar actions as the same thing.
Describe observational drift as a form of bias.
Multiple observers will give different ratings.
What is objective language in observation?
A statement of observable facts, without interpretation.
What is subjective language in observation?
A statement influenced by personal experiences, attitudes, feelings, or beliefs.
