Informal Observation of Young Children

2007

Gay Clement-Atkinson
[email protected]
803-935-5238

Informal observation is a planned, problem-solving pproach to gathering information about a child?s strengths and weaknesses. It is looking, seeing, but not participating. It is one of the oldest methods of conducting research?many young children cannot answer questions verbally. Observations can be conducted anywhere the child spends time. Observations provide information on the ?true picture? of the child?s performance. When we observe a child, information is collected and measured against a whole body of knowledge of child development and that child specifically. By watching children, we evaluate their needs, extend their experiences, and facilitate their learning. Observational methods are indispensable tools that are used in understanding children and making decisions about the next actions.

Reports and monographs

Consumers/Families, Professionals, Students

Visual Format or Large Print, Electronic (disc, CD, 508 compliant web posting)

N/A