A well-run classroom always incorporates quality observation and documentation, the hallmarks of NAEYC’s third standard.   Educators must show a full understanding and adoption of a wide variety of observation and documentation techniques.  In addition, teachers must be able to explain to parents, guests, and other outsiders the need for such a range of observations and documentation.  These methods must be used to actively improve the classroom setting and consistently meet the ever-changing needs of individual students.

The Portfolio Overview Sheet is a complete list of the observations I made of an individual student.  These observations led to a fuller understanding of who BP is as a child, and allowed me to write an accurate summary report that I have included for standard 3b.  The variety of documentation methods shows that I have learned about and understand how to use many different kinds of observation tools.  It also shows that I am able to combine these pieces of evidence to create a complete understanding of a child.  Throughout the observation process, I gained a true understanding of why observation is important and the many uses of these tools and techniques.

This summary report ties together many different types of observation I used to write a picture of BP, the case study subject.  Throughout the assignment, I was exposed to a wide variety of observation techniques and the proper way to carry them out.  I worked to know about, and then use each strategy.  This report also shows another piece of this standard: documentation.  Summaries such as this written by certified teachers are commonly used to revise teaching approaches for a particular student.  They can also be used as evidence in the process of getting needed services for a child who may need them.

A running record is a good fit for Sub-Standard 3c because it clearly shows that I can responsibly separate what actually happened during the observation from my own inferences on what I think each event might mean.  The two-column format helps to make sure the observation is not skewed by the observer and is as accurate as possible.  This delineation is important when sharing the observation with fellow professionals.  It allows each trained individual to make his or her own judgment on the situation and on any follow-up, if follow-up is deemed appropriate. 

This family letter and permission form was sent home with students in the pre-kindergarten class I observed in while taking “Techniques for Observing and Recording Young Children’s Development”, a class at TC3.  I used multiple observation techniques throughout the semester to create a complete picture of each student, and by extension, the whole class.  This letter shows that I took time to create an assessment partnership with each family and respected the possibility that some families may be opposed to their child being observed.  I understand and accept these wishes, and plan to make family connections and involvement an integral part of my own teaching.