Assessment Foundations
The goal is to track what the child can do and consider what the child has the potential to do.
What is observation?
Standardized tests and developmental screenings are examples of this type of assessment.
Formal assessment
This observation method is documented as it occurs in a sequence. Provides objective and descriptive evidence. Less structured, more free flowing.
What is a Running
Record?
It takes a closer look at how a child is developing using a brief test. It is cost effective and can be used to assess a large number of children in a relatively short period of time.
What is Developmental Screening?
Families should be viewed as this type of partner during assessment.
Equal or collaborative partners
This provides a starting point to truly measure the learning, growth and development of a child over time.
What is Baseline Data?
Observations, anecdotal notes, and checklists are examples of this type of assessment.
Informal assessment
This tool indicates whether specific developmental skills have been demonstrated. Quick and easy to use, an no training is required.
What is a Checklist?
Using only one assessment method may increase this problem.
Bias
Regular communication and involvement with families help build this essential relationship.
Trust
Every observation you complete provides valuable information that you can use to be more intentional and more responsive. Yu learn about interest, abilities, preferences, developmental skills, how they approach social interactions, personality and temperament.
What is Understanding the Child "whole child"?
Which type of assessment typically occurs during everyday classroom activities?
Informal assessment
The teacher, child and family have an equal opportunity to reflect on the child's thinking and learning. Provides an insight into the best way to plan for a more meaningful curriculum. It captures moments in a child's daily life to create a more comprehensive profile of the child.
What is a learning story?
According to the CDC, is a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior area.
Name one benefit of involving families in the assessment process.
Improved understanding of the child, better instructional planning, consistency between home and school, or stronger support for the child.
Explain one reason why assessment should be considered an ongoing process in early childhood education.
Children's development changes over time, so ongoing assessment helps monitor growth, adjust instruction, and identify needs.
Some children may need more individualized support and might benefit from specialized services or individualized accommodations. It is required by federal and state laws. Must have clearly identified goals and objectives that can be regularly monitored.
What is an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP)?
Take less time to write up an observation. Provides vivid details about the who, when, where and how. Evidence can be gathered formally (planned) or informally.
What is an anecdotal record?
A child demonstrates developmental concerns across several observations. What should the educator do next?
Continue gathering data, collaborate with the family, and follow referral procedures if appropriate.
A family disagrees with assessment findings. What is the educator's best response?
Listen respectfully, share information, gather additional data, and collaborate on next steps.