EDU 212 - Observation, Documentation, and Assessment

This course explores techniques for observing and documenting events and behaviors in early childhood educational settings. With a focus on the observation, documentation, and assessment cycle, students will explore how these processes inform curriculum development and support individualized and inclusive student learning. Through hands-on experience with various observation methods, students will research and evaluate both formal and informal screening and assessment tools. Additionally, the course will teach strategies for involving families and other professionals in the assessment and documentation process, fostering collaboration and partnership to enhance student outcomes.

1. Recognize the environmental, developmental, and cultural factors that influence children’s behavior.
2. Conduct accurate observations of both individual children and groups, grounded in child development principles.
3. Describe the connection between observations and the implementation of effective guidance, strategies for preventing disruptive behavior, and planning for groups of children.
4. Identify and apply standard assessment tools commonly used in early childhood education.
5. Use assessment findings to inform responsive teaching and provide individualized instruction.
6. Analyze the relationships between personal belief systems, children’s behavior, and the application of appropriate guidance techniques.
7. Discuss the role of observation in facilitating communication with parents and professionals.

 
Course Outline:

1. An Overview of Assessment in Infancy and Early Childhood
   1. Purposes of Assessment
   2. Types of Assessment
   3. Issues and Trends in Early Childhood Assessment
   4. Organizing for Assessment
2. How Infants and Young Children Should Be Assessed
   1. Individually
   2. Small Groups
   3. Natural Environment 
3. Types of Assessments (Formal and Informal)
   1. Checklists
   2. Rating Scales
   3. Time and Event Samples
   4. Environmental 
   5. Curriculum 
   6. Anecdotal Notes/Running Records/Narratives
   7. Formative and Summative 
4. Family Communication
   1. The Role of Observation in Communicating with Families
   2. Family Conferences
5. Curriculum and Environmental Planning
   1. Data Driven Planning
   2. Examining Antecedents
   3. Individualized Planning
6. Educator Analysis and Bias Reflection
   1. Personal Belief Systems
   2. Impact of Culture, Parenting, Environment, and Development 
   3. Bias Reflection 
7. Behavior
   1. Tracking, Monitoring, and Decreasing Challenging Behaviors
   2. Using Guidance Techniques to Impact Positive Behavior
   3. Appropriate Expectations

Case Study Analysis: 20-25%

Tests: 20-25%

Observation Booth Activities: 10-20%

Discussion Boards: 5-10%

Small Group Activities: 10-15%

Video and Observation Booth Practice (checklists, anecdotal notes, time and event samples, etc.) 15-20%
Mandatory Course Components:
Research Assignment

Tests

ECLL Observation Booth Activities

Anecdotal Note Taking Activities 

Discussion Boards

 
Equivalent Courses:
None.