Careers in Education What is the purpose of observing? What is an inference? How is it different from a fact? What types of things are important to look for?

Observations Notes Observation practice

Observations Observations are like a video camera. They record interactions, learning, playing, physical surroundings, and teaching.

Observations Objective statement  Only observable actions: No motives, attitudes or feelings  Don’t try to interpret why something happened;no judgements, conclusions or labels

Subjective Vs. Objective Objective: only facts Subjective: Opinions and feelings 1. John stands at the table pushing his paintbrush around. 2. Mariah is painting a beautiful picture. 3. Derek does not like to come to preschool. 4. Everyday Denyse come with tears in her eyes. 5. Jose is turning pages in a book. 6. Josh pushed a truck on the floor.

Subjective vs. Objective David is a cute kid 2. Gail isn’t feeling well today 3. Deanna ran to the shelf and got a box of crayons. 4. Holly sat in the sandbox. 5. Meghan is ready for a nap. 6. Matt skips around, twirling around. 7. Susan seems really smart. 8. Jody grabbed Lisa by the shirt. 9. Cheryl is happy today because she is wearing a new shirt.

Observations Environment—physical surroundings, room set-up, diversity of decorations, loaction of teachers desk, centers, etc. Teacher—tone of voice, proximity to children, verbal/non-verbal, interactions, words, appearance, multiple intellegences Children—interactions with others, non- verbal/verbal, on/off-task behavior

Observation Inference  Attempting to explain observed behavior and give it meaning.  Why did the child behave…..  What caused the teacher to…..  NO TWO PEOPLE interpret the facts the same way. They infer based on their own personal experiences, feelings, values and attitudes!

Arrive on time and check in at the front office. Remember that you are a guest in the classroom and a representative of your high school. Enter room quietly Find a place to sit that is not disruptive—off to the side—remember you don’t want to interfere with the class. Complete your paperwork Pay attention to the time! Know where you are supposed to be. Observation Expectations

Observations Objective statements—Just the facts! Introduce yourself, if there is a break in the class and seems appropriate. No gum, eating, etc. Appropriate clothing! Dress code applies! No talking, or interaction with others! Appropriate language at times, in hallways and office! Confidentiality and Reporting

Observations Practice Sit in a group with your toys 3 / 2 Observers –NO COMMUNICATION  May record activities, bits of conversation, descriptive remarks, pictures, etc.

Observations Observers share your observations Are they factual? Or inferences? We all have opinions—it is critical not to pass judgement but simply report the facts.

Observations What were your observations of the environment? What were your observations of the students? What difficulties did you encounter in making the distinction between fact and inference?

Observation schedule High School Observation– Friday, Sept. 28 th Elementary Observations—  Oct. 2 nd (Tuesday) Need help with transportation!  Parents? Neighbors? Grandparents? Other than walking?  Oct. 6 th (Thursday) I will have a CTE Suburban to transport 6- 7 of you. Middle School Observations—Tues., Oct. 9th