Task 10: Support childrens behaviour :This is the same as Task 1 and Task 2 in Observation 3: Support childrens behaviour, Assessor Observation35923/A1.

Task 4: Gather information about children

This is Task 4 of 6

Description: For this task, you are required to observe three (3) children of different ages (preferably 6-12 months difference in age) and/or abilities, using a range of observation methods. You must observe the children on different days, at different times and in different situations. Gathering and analysing information about children is the focus for this task. What you need to submit:

• A signed Permission to observe/photograph a child template (Appendix C) for your three (3) focus children.
• For each of your focus children, you will need to complete eight (8) observations using the different information gathering techniques listed in b). NOTE: you will have twenty-four (24) observations in total. Please see Information gathering techniques templates (Appendix G).
• Each observation requires an interpretation and follow-up/extension ideas.
• You must refer to at least two (2) sub-outcomes of the applicable Learning Framework.
• A summary of each child using Summary of observations, gathered information and interpretation template (Appendix D).

Does this task need to be completed before the Assessor Observation? No

Required Task

1. Prepare to observe your three (3) focus children

• Select three (3) children to observe and work with. Ensure each child will be available to be observed and to participate in later planned experiences over a period of time - you should preview the requirements for Tasks 4 and 5 of this Portfolio. The selected children should be of different ages (preferably 6-12 months difference in age), and with varying individual abilities.
• Discuss your selection of focus children with your Workplace Supervisor, to ensure your choices are appropriate and meet the requirements of this task.
• Obtain a signed Permission to observe/photograph a child template (Appendix C) for each focus child, allowing you to observe and work with them.

1. Gather information about your focus children

• You are required to gather information and utilise the following observation methods:

1. Questioning (conversation transcript)
2. Discussion with families
3. Anecdotal observations
4. Learning stories
5. Jottings
6. Digital images (i.e. photos)
7. Samples of childrens work (i.e. paintings, or close-up photos of their beadwork or tower building)
8. At least one other type of observation (Behaviour Report, Event Sample, Running Record, etc)

• Gather information about your focus children at different times, in different situations, and on different days.
• Ensure each piece of gathered information gives you sufficient information to assist you to better understand the child.
• Using Appendix G: Information gathering techniques templates, document your findings.
• You will need to submit the eight (8) completed observations, for each focus child.
• Ensure all documentation is recorded accurately and respectfully and in accordance with the service policy and procedure.

Refer to Chapter 16 Use information about children to inform practice, from your textbook to assist with observation techniques. Remember to refer to Additional Resources for additional information that may assist you in your observation writing, including webinars,

1. Interpret each observation

• For each observation, you will need to interpret it to determine the following about your focus children:
  1. Childs knowledge and ideas
  2. Childs abilities
  3. Childs interests
  4. Childs social interactions
  5. Childs reactions to play environments
  6. Different aspects of the childs development

Note: The interpretations should look at the child holistically. Consider how you can link your interpretations to the different developmental areas, which include, language, cognitive, physical, emotional, social, creative. By delving deeper into what the observations are telling you about your focus child, you are gaining a stronger understanding of early childhood development.

1. Refer to at least two (2) sub-outcomes of the relevant Learning Framework (such as, EYLF) in each interpretation.

• You may do this by specifically referring to the sub-outcome of the Learning Framework, for example, 1.1: Children feel safe, secure and supported. Alternatively, you may simply use the language of the Learning Framework in your interpretation i.e. Rakesh is demonstrating that he feels safe, secure and supported in his play. (These examples provided are from the EYLF.)

Note: The EYLF has five (5) Learning Outcomes and nineteen (19) sub-outcomes.

1. Summarise what you have learnt about each focus child

• Use Appendix D Summary of observations, gathered information and interpretation template.
• You will need to complete one (1) table for each focus child.

1. Discuss and reflect on your practice

• Discuss this task (a-e) with your Workplace Supervisor
• Reflect verbally on your own practice
• Ask your Workplace Supervisor to complete the sign-off below for this task.

Attachments:

Task-4.docx