Observations

Observations - Roxanne

Observations are the act or instance of noting a fact. There are two types of observation: anecdotal and checklist. Anecdotal observations are simply writing (or scripting) the actions of the students. Along with the documented events, your comments are interjected. It is very important to document the verbal and nonverbal behaviors of the students. Checklists are defined as a form or checklist with items that direct your attention and responses during the observation.

The cost of observation software varies depending on what software you use and what data you would like to collect.

There are advantages and disadvantages of both observations.

__Anecdotal __

Advantages:
 * Conference Preparation
 * “Unrestricted” or “Wide Focus” Instrument

Disadvantages:


 *  Lack of Training
 * Pages of Notes/Analysis Analog

__Checklists __

Advantages:
 * I know what to look for
 * Communicates to teachers
 * Classroom and School wide Data Analysis

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">Disadvantages:


 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">Moment in Time “Narrow Focus”
 * <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">Does not capture the “Art and Science” of Teaching

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">Digital Format of Observation (All of these products are downloadable from the web and all have their specific purpose.)

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">1. Porta Data <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">2. Walk ‘bout <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">3. GoObserve <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">4. eWalk

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">Web Links

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">www.portadata.com <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;"> <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive; font-size: 120%;">[|http://www.media-x.com/products/mxweb/index.php]