Observation Techniques Essay

535 Words3 Pages
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends that programs construct comprehensive system of curriculum, assessment, and program evaluation that fit together in to a coherent educational system linked to child outcomes and/or standards. Observation based authentic assessments are of child in real life time, doing everyday activities or activities that are developmentally appropriate for the child based on their own individual needs and ability while remaining completely objective. These assessments are generally tied into a child's daily activities and are directly linked to curriculum and learning standards. Authentic observation is collaborative with a child's family and includes them during the assessment process and outcomes. Authentic observations and assessments are a valuable and irreplaceable tool in many areas of child development. The assist in the early detection of children who may be in need of specialized services, and they are also great tools in helping the teacher plan instruction for individuals as well as for group instruction. Assessments are also a great and reliable tool that is utilized in helping professionals identify where their program and staff are lacking and where improvements and adjustments are needed to better meet the goals that are set for children's developmental needs. As a child educator it is important to know how to have meaningful conversations with children. Early childhood educators need to learn to watch and listen to a child long enough to determine a what a child's goals should be and as an educator understand the child's individual needs to develop strategies for attaining those goals. In order for observers to fully understand a child, they need to dig deeper and think beyond what the child is doing on the surface. We have to slow down, carefully observe, and study our
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