Meaningful, developmentally appropriateobservationand assessment are core components of every early learning setting. In today’sworld of data collection, high-stakes testing, and accountability, it isvitally important to understand how to effectively assess young children infamiliar settings; use this data to inform the curriculum; and communicate thisinformation with staff, families, and communities. Carrying on the work of the first volume of Spotlight on Young Children:Observation and Assessment, this book brings togetherall-new articles curated by Hilary Seitz, director for educator and leadershipprograms in the California State University system. Organized into threedistinct parts, the contributions Discuss changing the landscapeof observation and assessment Emphasize the need forassessment to be culturally and linguistically responsive Showcase a variety ofreasons why educators use observation and assessment, exploring informationabout the foundations and meanings behind them Highlight different facets of theauthentic assessment process and how to capture thinking and learning moments Address reflecting on,celebrating, and including all children by identifying their uniquestrengths and needs and using a variety of supporting strategies Each article in this collection is accompanied by questions toprompt deeper thinking on the content. With this resource, continue to grow yourunderstanding of how observation and assessment can guide your instruction andpromote children’s learning.
