Wednesday, 6 August 2014

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Tuesday, 5 August 2014

Observation



What is Observation?
Observation can be defined as “the act of noting and recording something, such as phenomenon, with instruments” (Farlex Inc, 2014). Moreover, Podmore and Luff (2012) quote Fleer and Richardson (2004) to further explain observations as a tool for collecting data or proof of learning. Additionally observation also has to do with documentation, which MacNaughton and Williams (2009) describes as collecting and arranging information in order to provide an illustrative or written of children’s learning and development.



Types of Observations
In the early childhood education (ECE) environment there are many ways and methods of observing and documenting observations; for example running records, anecdotal, photographing, time sample, learning stories, check lists, audio-recording and video-recording. It can be said that the methods of observation done can act as a base for teachers to make professional decisions and conclusions about the teaching, learning and education programmes that are planned (Podmore & Luff, 2012).

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My Observations: Process


For my observations I used the method of a running record in which I tried to write as much detail as possible during the 30 minutes of observation that I was doing. Additionally I would take photos and sometimes video recordings of activity that I found interesting. When observing I tried to sit or be in a place in which I was able to observe the person without being in their way of their activity. At times, where I was sitting was helpful as I could see what was occurring, sometimes I did find that I had to reposition myself or follow the person to see clearly what was happening.

I did find that one time while observing the older child; it was only me and her in the room and so she would interact with me such as when she was explaining about her homework and making a house. In these situations I tried to make a minimal response such as just acknowledging her by nodding my head or saying yes or ok as I did not want to influence the observation too much. According to Feez (2010) Montessori teachers need to position themselves in a place where they will not interact, distract or disturb the children in any way. In relation to when I observed the adult the second time, I found that there was one time during the observation where there was more noise. Therefore, I had to get closer to hear her interactions with someone while also trying to not interrupt, which was a little harder than the previous observations.

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My Observations: Results



Reading over my observations I noticed that some of the details that I focused on the most were in relation to the movements and mannerism of the person. For example I would note which hand they were using, how they would move to another place or how they interacted non-verbally with others. As I had video recorded parts of the observations I found that it was much easier to go back to these and pick out aspects that had been missed, in particular the dialogue. MacNaughton and Williams (2009) explain that when children’s learning is videotaped it can offer a rich source of information, particularly about the children’s interactions and language.  My observations in particular with the older child benefited greatly from this as I found that she spoke a lot during the observation. The videotaping helped as I was able to re-watch the video to find out her thoughts on her homework and making a house out of paper.

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My Observations: Reflection

Reflection
Throughout my process of observation, I believe that observation is an essential tool that teachers need. I found that in the majority of my observations I was able to learn many things about each individual person and that I was able to improve on my method of observation. I think that this is important for teachers as by learning what the child is capable of and interested in it benefits everyone, like the child and family, as they can all learn about the child and celebrate in their achievements. When I first started observing I found sometimes what the subject was doing was not that interesting, such as when they were eating. On other hand, there were also some activities that I found interesting to observing, for example when the infant appeared to be interested in the camera case and batteries. However, I think it’s important to remember that what the child is doing and involved in is all valuable information for teachers. Moreover, it is essential that children are seen as capable, competent and co-constructors of knowledge (Arthur, Beecher, Dockett, Farmer & Death, 2012).

To share this information I decided to write learning stories. I wrote them as if I was talking to the person for example, saying “You did”, “I saw you”, “I noticed”. I found that this was easier to write and also made the observations more personal for the person. I also found that it was easier to evaluate and assess these observations afterwards and made me think about what I could do to support this person. Additionally, I also made links to Te Whāriki and put what my perspective was about the observation. I think that this is helpful for the teachers, as they can reflect later on this information and plan experiences; and for the parents, as it can show that the child is learning, they can read about what their child has experienced and perhaps offer input about what the teachers can do to support their child.

During my observations, I found that the second observation of each subject was easier as I was observing them with new knowledge and so could focus on other aspects of them. Furthermore, the more observations I did the more I tried to notice other smaller details, such what the subjects’ emotion was or minor movements they made for example rubbing their nose. Overall, it is important to remember is that in order to become a better observer one needs to practice, repeat and reflect to improve this skill (Vershuur, 2008).