Observing to Inform in Childcare Settings

Overview - Observing to Inform in Childcare Settings

This is a Level 3 course designed to further the knowledge and skills required in the use of observation to inform practice when working with young children.

The course focuses on the importance of observation in understanding what is actually happening in early year's settings rather than what we think may be happening. It highlights the importance of observation in assessing and planning from children's interests and abilities which clearly links to the unique child and enabling environments of the Early Years Foundation Stage. The course also considers the use of observation of adults to inform and improve practice within teams of practitioners in early year's settings.

Having completed the course learners will be able to explain the importance of observation to inform practice. They will have explored some of the different approaches to observation and how and when to implement them.

Lesson Plan

• Course aims and learning intentions
• The rationale for observing
• Observing children
• Methods of observation
• Observational skills
• Observing practitioners
• Observing and documenting learning
• Conclusion

Objectives

On completion of this module learners will:

• Understand the fundamental reasons for observing children and early years practice.
• Understand the primary elements of observational techniques.
• Have explored some different approaches to observation and how and when to implement them.
• Identified the skills required to undertake observations.
• Recognise the value of observations to inform planning of resources, activities and adult interactions.
• Understand the value of observations to inform assessment and evaluation.
• Learn how to use observation to identify special educational needs and safeguarding and child protection.
• The course comes with an online assessment and certificate on achieving a satisfactory pass mark.

Accreditation

The content of this course has been independently certified as conforming to universally accepted Continuous Professional Development (CPD) guidelines

Certification

On completion of this course you will be able to download a Virtual College certificate.

Duration

Approximately 2 - 3 hours. The length of time taken depends entirely on how quickly you can study and absorb the material. You can proceed as quickly or slowly as you like, and there is no limit on how long you can take to do the course.

Target Audience

Produced by the National Day Nursery Association (NDNA) this course is aimed at practitioners who are working in an early years setting.

However, the learning content is suitable for anyone interested in learning more about child care best practice including those working in playgroups, pre-school, child minders and schools.

Entry Requirements

There are no specific entry requirements needed for this course.

Testimonials

I love the fact that Virtual College is providing e-learning in the field of Early Years Thanks 03/03/2011 SP