This week you learned about observation and assessment during play. Observation and assessment allow professionals (and parents/guardians) to better understand the individual child, enhance learning and development, and identify children who are developing atypically to provide them necessary support/services

This week you learned about observation and assessment during play.  Observation and assessment allow professionals (and parents/guardians) to better understand the individual child, enhance learning and development, and identify children who are developing atypically to provide them necessary support/services.

For a brief review of some assessment methods and the importance of assessment, please use the following weblink.  Although the information comes from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care, it is applicable to a variety of settings and states: Early childhood assessment.

After reviewing the information provided at the weblink above, answer the following questions/prompts:

Based on your understanding of the various assessment tools, can you imagine how factors such as culture, age, personal bias, etc. might affect proper observation, assessment, and documentation?  Provide specific examples to support your point.

Detail what steps you will take as a professional in the field of early childhood education to ensure you are conducting proper observations and assessments during play.

Finally, explain why it is crucial for early childhood educators to use a variety of assessment and observation tools.