Observing Children: A Tool Assessment

Assessment Tool and Method Student Name Institution Professor Name Course Date Assessment Tool and Method College of Education – Department of Special EducationSPE 461: Typical and Atypical DevelopmentWeek #8 – MARCH 13, 2024 * * Look to the reading: Observing Children: A Tool for Assessment * Answer the following 5 questions: *  Question #1: What is it meant by the term authentic assessment? Answer: Authentic assessment is observing, recording, and documenting children's growth and behavior in play-based situations. Experts consider this assessment the best method because it provides accurate information by observing children in their natural environments as they go about normal classroom activities and routines (Rahmah, n.d.). The critical aspect is that the assessment occurs through ongoing observation in real-life contexts rather than relying solely on formal tests or contrived situations. It allows teachers to see children's abilities, interests, and needs as they naturally engage with materials, interact with peers, and respond to the classroom setting. Authentic assessment provides a more holistic picture of the whole child. Question #2: List three considerations for choosing a method of assessment: Answer 2_A: The first consideration is the type of behavior an individual wants to assess and the details needed. Some methods capture more details, while others provide just a broad overview or snapshot. Answer 2_B: The second consideration is whether an individual needs to collect information on a child or the entire group. Specific tools are better suited for focusing on one child at a time, while others allow for gathering data on many children simultaneously. Answer 2_C: The third consideration is the amount of focused attention and involvement the observer requires. Specific methods, like anecdotal records, require the observer's full, undivided attention to capture an incident's details. Other tools like checklists allow the observer to continue interacting with children while quickly recording information. Question #3: List one advantage (+) and one disadvantage (-) in using a checklist Answer – Advantage (+): Checklists are efficient as they are quick and easy to use, requiring minimal time and effort. Answer = Disadantage (-): Checklists lack rich and descriptive information since they only note whether a behavior occurred or not; they may mis...