A Closer Look
Observation Methods, Tools and Techniques
No single observation can give you all the information you will need about a child’s development. In order to truly understand a child’s unique attributes, preferences, personality and strengths, you must observe them consistently, using several documentation tools and techniques. Each observation method has strengths and limitations. In this section, we will review some of the more commonly used techniques and tools that teachers use to gather objective observation evidence:
- Running Record
- Anecdotal
- Time Sampling
- Event Sampling
- Frequency Count
- Duration Record
- Checklists
- Rating Scales
- Work Sample
- Technology
As you begin to purposefully and objectively observe young children in the classroom, you will start to tune-in to the children in ways you have never before experienced. You will find yourself thinking about observation even before you write it down. The following chapters will detail the ten methods, so you will have a wide variety of tools to use at your disposal when observing young children.
