The Pacific Lutheran University - Head Start Systemic Classroom Observation Tool.

N

21

Classroom Observation Techniques; Evaluation Methods; Evaluation Problems; Evaluation Utilization; Higher Education; Observation; Preschool Education; Program Evaluation; Program Improvement

Head Start classroom observations are an integral part of providing high-quality services to families and children while supporting staff. All too often, however, this opportunity to enhance services and solve problems is viewed either as an evaluation of staff or as a "rubber stamp" to meet funding requirements. Depending on the professional observer's experience, goals of the observation may be poorly met and emphasis may be arbitrarily placed on certain types of information. This tool is designed from a strengths-based model not only to meet observation requirements, but also to help staff and observers conceptualize all members of the Head Start classroom as part of a large, interrelated system. There are five steps to using the observation tool: (1) pre-observation, during which staff and parent goals for the observation are solicited; (2) completion of the observation tool (an example is provided); (3) discussion with staff members of observation findings; (4) creation of a first-draft narrative report of observation and discussion results; and (5) completion of a final-draft narrative report incorporating staff input and revisions. Certain training (for example, tracking interactional patterns and being sensitive to multicultural and gender issues) is helpful when implementing this observation tool. (A sample pre-observation worksheet and narrative report are also included). (EV)

1997

ED402062