Advocates an approach to observation of young children in nurseries that takes into account the emotional and cognitive domains of observer and the observer in communication with the entire nursery system. Notes that in this approach, observation becomes a source of reflection that involves psychological and pedagogical states of uncertainty and…

Describes the role of observational research in the assessment of children's peer-related social competence and the conceptual frameworks that serve as a foundation for observational assessment of children's social goals. Describes technological advances that allow more descriptive, precise, and complex behavioral codes. Provides an example of an…

A grandfather and educator of the gifted recounts his experiences systematically observing and recording the development of his granddaughter from birth through age 5. He notes the special advantages grandparents have in such observation and offers advice to parents, grandparents and talented youth on ways to develop talents and interests…

The early identification of children with learning disabilities (LD) is difficult but can be accomplished. Observation of key behaviors which are indicators of LD by preschool and kindergarten teachers can assist in this process. This early identification facilitates the use of intervention strategies to provide a positive early experience for…

This article discusses a unique distance learning facility that allows people, while they are busy working with individuals in another corner of the room, to see what exactly is going on in a learning center and how children are communicating with one another. The article is divided up into the following sections: A New Window on Learning;…

Discusses findings that child care quality can be measured effectively and efficiently through telephone interview. Notes that interview items were more highly correlated to the materials composite than to the interaction composite of the Environment Ratings Scales. Describes situations where on-site observation is necessary. Suggests that one…

Discusses the purposes of assessment in programs for young children and the role of assessment in the context of children's lives, parents' concerns, and teachers' and administrators' situations. Also discusses how observation-based assessment can be used as part of a developmentally appropriate assessment process serving children, parents,…

Discusses family selection issues that should be considered in child care research, and evidence demonstrating why each should be considered. Issues include whether causal inferences can be made from observational studies and the impact on conclusions from regression analyses that include highly correlated measures of child care experiences,…

Examines how early childhood teachers in one Australian state use child observations. Argues that the current economic/political climate has produced changes for early childhood settings and that how teachers respond to changes regarding child observation depends on their work context. Suggests that the purpose of observation is changing and that…

Addresses the pressures of early academic learning among young children and presents parents with three guidelines for pursuing early learning experiences: readiness, observation, and options. (BB)

Discusses roles that parents and teachers can perform to facilitate children's interactions with computers. Highlights include: (1) designing computer environments, including learner control, learning activities, and relating computer experiences to other learning processes; (2) adult interactions with children; and (3) observation and feedback…

Notes the existence of gender bias in early childhood education. Provides a list of "Do's" and "Don'ts" for teachers and administrators to eliminate bias. Claims that by reviewing this list and supporting information, teachers can become more knowledgeable about hidden bias and learn how to change their behavior to provide the…

Maintains that new practices such as performance-based assessment that are consistent with the early childhood profession's process goals need to be developed and that testing of young children that is not developmentally appropriate constitutes misassessment. Promotes observational assessment that uses anecdotal notes and that complements…

Recommends identifying elements in the physical classroom and the daily schedule that may contribute to children's aggressive behaviors. Suggests observing the child and looking at the daily routine as the basis for creating a suitable environment. Lists ways to reduce stimulation and stress, and identifies benefits of extended play time. (DLH)