CHD31300/CHD3130 - Child Observation, Screening, Assessment, and Documentation

(3 units)

Assessment and evaluation practices must be valid, reliable, and sensitive to the cultural and linguistic background of the child. They must also be appropriate for the developmental behavior being assessed. These practices include observing children in natural situations and documenting observations through a variety of strategies that include anecdotal records and observational checklists; work samples such as drawings, writing samples or dictations; and photographs or videotapes of children’s behaviors, creative constructions and playful activity throughout the day. Standardized assessment and screening tools are included in the repertoire. Families are key to the process as they contribute information about their children’s interests, activities, behaviors, developmental progress, health, and prior experiences, as well as share information from the perspective of the teacher. Assignments include both a systematic observation of children and a course project demonstrating competence in the course objectives.