1. Interpreting Observations
Josh Thompson

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

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

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

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

6. 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

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

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

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

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

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

12. 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

13. Interpreting Observational Data
Josh Thompson