Part 1: Running Record of one child
Choose a child on which to focus.
observe that child for 30 minutes.
As you observe, write down everything that happens with regard to this child and his/her interactions with others and the environment. Be as objective, and as possible, as possible. In order to record as much as possible about what is happening, you will need to use "Quick Notes" (i.e., personal shorthand). At the end of the 30-minute observation period, take time to write out your "Quick Notes" in full sentences. (Note; Writing out your observation note, immediately after you finish your note taking, will help you retain more information in your "Write-UP.")
Review your ''write-UP" and ask yourself if your observation revealed any overlap between developmental domains (e.g., interactions between bio-social and cognitive domains). At the end of your Running Record of One Child, briefly describe which developmental domains, if any, overlapped and how this overlap manifested itself.
Note: Record both your "Quick Notes," your complete "Write UP," as well as an example of the interplay between developmental domains on your Observation Worksheet.
Part 2. Running Record of One Area of Development
For this part of the assignment, you will observe all children but focus on only one area of development, such as those you pinpointed for your Child Development Chart (e.g., the use of tools or objects, verbal communication, or social interactions between children).
Select the area of development on which you will focus.
Observe all children for approximately 30 minutes.
Every time you observe this area of development, write down everything that you observe-as it happens. Be as objective, and as detailed, as possible. In order to record as much as possible about what is happening, you will again use "Quick Notes" (i.e., personal shorthand). At the end of the 30-minute observation period, write out your observation notes in full sentences.
Part 3: Personal Reflection
The purpose of this segment is to analyze your observation experience from a personal point of view. This portion of your assignment should be 1-2 pages in length. You need to cite your sources as in-text citation in APA format.
Use the following questions to guide your thinking.
*What were some of your expectations prior to beginning your assignment?
*In what ways does your actual observation experience compare to your expectations?
* How are you adjusting to your role as observer?
* Were there times when it was difficult for you to remain objective?
*In what ways do your observations, and activities at the observation site, allow you to better understand the development of children in that specific age range?
*Are there any issues that might be difficult to understanding given the relatively limited time you spend observing?
What touched you, aroused your curiosity, and/or made you think?
Use APA format. Cite your sources as in-text citations.
Observation Worksheet
General Information:
Age range: 2-6 years old
Type of setting (e.g. family child care; center-based program):
Name of principal caregiver:
Contact phone for principal caregiver
Number of caregivers for the "room" in which you observe:
Number of children in that "room":
Date/time of observation: