What is the ''Observation'' in Early Childhood Education (Noticing and recording learning)

Observations are records in which significant changes in children's development are documented in detail. They can be conducted in a planned or spontaneous manner and can be based on information gathered through videos, photographs, checklists, discussions with families, portfolios, conversations with children, or input from colleagues.

Observation can be prepared on many topics. These include the child’s areas of interest, friendships, self-care skills, or skills in any developmental area, as well as aspects of their development that have progressed since the day they started school.

Observations can be written using different techniques. These techniques include:

• Learning Story Observations

• Photo Observations

• Jottings

• Running Records

• Anecdotal Records

• Time Samples

• Event Samples

• Sociograms
  
  Learning Story Observation Example

  The children went outside to the open area in front of the center for their sports lesson. While Indiana was playing with her friends, she suddenly and spontaneously paused, noticing a stick lying on the ground. She picked it up and walked over to the sign displaying the name of the center. Using the stick, she carefully traced each letter on the sign and, as she did so, pronounced the letters aloud.

  This spontaneous activity demonstrated Indiana’s curiosity, emerging literacy skills, and fine motor coordination. She engaged with the letters independently, showing initiative and focus. Additionally, her peers observed her actions and were naturally drawn into the activity, supporting social engagement and shared learning. This moment highlights how spontaneous exploration can foster both individual development and collaborative experiences in a meaningful and playful way.