KM05 - CHAPTER 1: Observation & Assessment

Flashcards covering the principles, importance, and steps of child observation and assessment within a play-based educational framework.

Observation & Assessment (Purpose)

Used to assess levels of development, ensure educational goals are being met, lead interventions, and understand a child's skills and behaviours.

Play-Based Approach

A teaching and learning strategy where children master social, physical, and cognitive development by solving problems and practising skills.

Scaffold

The interactions between children and teachers that support learning while taking into account different cultures and local customs.

Play-Based Observation & Assessment

A method that tracks progress and learning approaches without testing situations, utilizing materials that reflect a child's home and experiences.

Developmental Domains

The specific areas of growth tracked during observation: physical, social, emotional, cognitive, language, and communication.

Planning the Focus

The first step to implementing observations, which involves planning to observe only 1 or 2 aspects of learning or development at a time.

Unobtrusive

A manner of conducting observations naturally, easily, and efficiently so children do not feel they are being watched or experience anxiety.

Continuous Observations

The process of keeping detailed records over time to ensure progress is occurring and to produce an accurate profile for identifying problem areas.

OAR

A requirement for detailed records meaning all aspects of the child must be Observed, Assessed, and Recorded.

Objective Observations

Factual and accurate records that describe what is seen and heard without allowing personal opinions, biases, or assumptions to influence the assessment.

Biases

Personal leanings or assumptions that an observer must be aware of to avoid jumping to conclusions and to give each child the same consideration.