COURSE DESCRIPTION

Introduces formal and informal methods of gathering data on children. Emphasis on understanding developmental patterns and implications for diagnostic teaching. Lecture 2 hours. Laboratory 2 hours. Total 4 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

The purpose is to present information on and provide experience using various descriptive and quantitative methods of gathering and analyzing observational data on young children, with emphasis on patterns of physical, cognitive, social and emotional development.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

Functional literacy in the English language; reading at the 12th grade level.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. develop techniques for gathering observation data in a variety of settings
2. become proficient in evaluating observational tools for usefulness and efficiency
3. demonstrate skill in deriving appropriate inferences based on observational data, and information for planning effective teaching strategies
4. demonstrate understanding of developmental patterns, as a framework for assessing observation data

1. Informal and formal observation techniques
2. Objectivity in observing and recording data
3. Ethics of observation and reporting
4. Including parents in data collection and results
5. Principles of human development
6. Patterns of children's behavior

1. Developmental tasks in child development
2. Resources for formal testing
3. Resources for referral