1. Why do we do it? How do we do it? What is it?
OBSERVATION
Why do we
do it?
How do
we do it?
What
is it?

2. Observation is a form of ASSESSMENT
It is important to assess learning and development so that we can:
Check progress in terms of learning and development
Plan to meet the care, learning and development needs of babies, children and young people

3. It is important for us to observe in order to:
Check overall development
Check progress
Identify needs
Assist planning

4. It is important for us to observe in order to:
explore a ‘problem’
monitor and evaluate the strategies, routines, activities and resources used
assist the reporting and recording processes within the setting (including parents and other professionals).

5. Who might observe and assess babies, children and young people?
Health visitors
Family doctors
Speech therapists
Educational psychologists
Child psychiatrists
Play therapists
Nurses (e.g. school nurse)
Teachers
Teaching assistants
Nursery nurses
Can you think of anyone else?

6. Recording an observation:
Records must be accurate
There must be a clear aim:
Why am I doing it?
What is the purpose?
What information do I need?

7. Recording an observation:
Date and sign the record
Make sure you carry out the observation as required
Store the records as per the setting policy
Ensure confidentiality (Data Protection Act)

8. Objective (think about what this word means)
Types of observations
Observations must be:
Objective (think about what this word means)
Part of an ongoing process
Observers might be:
Non-participant
Participant
Data gained from observations might be:
Open data
Closed data

9. Different observation techniques:
Written records
Checklists and tick charts
Event samples
Time samples
Target child observations
Sociograms

10. Why do learners need to carry out observations?
To develop professional practice
To apply their knowledge and understanding of child development
To identify needs and plan to meet these needs

11. Suggested format for presenting observations:
Details of the observation and signature of the workplace supervisor
Aim and rationale
Method used
The observation

12. Suggested format for presenting observations:
Interpretation
Recommendations
Personal learning
References and bibliography

13. Carrying out the observation:
Asking permission
Collecting appropriate equipment and resources
Deciding on the location of your observation
Evaluating your observations
Linking your observations to development

14. Carrying out the observation:
Linking theories of child development to your observations
Using references to support your work
Using observations to inform future planning
Recommendations and personal learning