Interpreting Observations Josh Thompson http://faculty.tamuc.edu/jthompson

Interpreting Observations Look at the whole Look at the whole observation as a snapshot of the child in that moment. Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Search for patterns Search throughout the observation for patterns Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Inferences Establish how patterns and trends develop in an observation, then inferences can be made. Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Inferences Inferences are statements considered to be true, based upon a foundation of previous statements considered to be true. Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Drawing Conclusions Interpret the inferences Get to the point – what is the main idea going on in this observation setting? Draw/Make conclusions Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Drawing Conclusions Look for the underlying meaning of what was observed. Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Theories Relate the observed behavior to different theorists. Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Theories Does this behavior fit into a larger pattern affecting the child’s development at this time? Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Theories Is this behavior typical for a child at this age and at these stages of development? Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Theories Is there a cultural explanation for the child’s behavior?   Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observations Validity To the degree that 1] the behavior is recorded objectively and accurately, and 2] inferences are made directly correlated to those recorded behaviors, then the more valid are the conclusions. Interpreting Observations

Interpreting Observational Data Josh Thompson http://faculty.tamuc.edu/jthompson