Unit 7 Observation, assessment and planning Lesson 4 © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

AC 2.3 Identify factors to consider when observing children. LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children. AC 2.1 Discuss the need for confidentiality and objectivity during the observation process. AC 2.3 Identify factors to consider when observing children. AC 2.4 Evaluate the need for objectivity when observing children. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Discuss and write a definition for: Subjectivity Objectivity. LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.1] Time: 15 mins Discuss and write a definition for: Subjectivity Objectivity. Teacher notes: Learners should discuss and write what their pair thinks is a good definition for objectivity and subjectivity. These should then be discussed with the rest of the class and a definition for each agreed on. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.1] Objectivity - Objectivity is a noun that means a lack of bias, judgment, or prejudice. Maintaining one's objectivity is the most important job of a judge. Subjectivity - Subjectivity refers to how someone's judgment is shaped by personal opinions and feelings instead of outside influences. Subjectivity is partially responsible for why one person loves an abstract painting while another person hates it. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Objectivity and subjectivity LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.1] Objectivity and subjectivity When observing children it is important that you do not add your own thoughts or feelings, and that the observation is authentic and factual. Carrying out observations which are not factual could have an impact on a child’s development. Should observations be subjective or objective? © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Which is more authentic? LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.1] Time: 15 mins Look at the photos below and write an objective and subjective observation for each one. Which is more authentic? Teacher notes: Example: Photo 1 Objective – Child A is placing a puzzle piece in the correct space Subjective – Child A likes puzzles. Photo 4 Objective – Child B is squeezing the dough with both hands Subjective – Child B having a lovely time squeezing the dough. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.2] Time: 15 mins Discuss situations where you have had to write up notes. Consider: Observations Meetings Instructions In class. Can you read and understand your own notes? What impact may this have when working in partnership? Teacher notes: Learners should discuss their thoughts on their own note-taking skills and discuss areas for development. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Factors to consider when observing LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.3] Factors to consider when observing There are many factors to consider before, during and after observing children, these include: Gaining the appropriate permission The health and well-being of the child What the child is doing The individual needs of the child The purpose of the observation. Some of these factors may affect the outcome of the observation. Teacher notes: This is not an exhaustive list but gives learner the opportunity to consider factors. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Gaining the appropriate permission LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.3] Time: 15 mins Discuss each of the factors shown below and explain why they may impact on the observation of a child: Gaining the appropriate permission The health and well-being of the child What the child is doing The individual needs of the child The purpose of the observation. Teacher notes: Examples: If the child is unwell or unhappy when being observed then the outcome may be different from what is expected. If the child is being observed whilst doing something that is not appropriate for their age and stage of development, then the outcome may not be an accurate reflection of the child’s abilities. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.4] Time: 15 mins How objective are you? Consider: Are you able to note down exactly what you see and hear? Do you find it difficult to keep your opinions out of an observation? Does your objectivity depend on the child you are observing? If your observations were not truly objective, how might this impact on the outcome? Teacher notes: Learners should consider their own objectivity. Learners should consider whether they are able to write accurate observations in the here and now, or whether previous experiences of the child influence their notes – i.e. a child with behavioural difficulties, or a child who is not doing something during the observation that they know they can normally do. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Observation 1 should be objective and only include facts. LO2 Understand professional practice in relation to the observation of children [AC 2.1, 2.2, 2.4] Time: 15 mins Imagine a child who is playing in the sand pit with diggers and trucks. Write up 2 observations of the same child and situation, and use no more than 100 words in each. Observation 1 should be objective and only include facts. Observation 2 should be subjective and include opinion and personal views. Teacher notes: This activity will enable learners to see how different an observation can be even if describing the same child and the same event. Refer back to the classroom discussion activity for examples. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited

Summary The definition of objectivity and subjectivity. The different between objectivity and subjectivity in observations of children. Reflect on own skills of objectivity and subjectivity with regard to observations. Teacher notes: This is not an exhaustive list but gives learner the opportunity to consider factors. © Hodder & Stoughton Limited