Observation and Assessment of Children with Diverse Abilities
Observational Methods
Observations are crucial to understand a child, such as finding out their interests, strengths, and needs. (Gallant, 2024) Based on the experience from working with a Resource Consultant at my workplace, she obtained information by asking questions to educators as well as observing the child in certain settings. I think one of the most used methods is anecdotal observations. This method uses descriptive language to document what exactly the child did or say at the snapshot time. (Gregory, 2002) Observe then analyze the data collected and come up with insights of development and develop strategies to support the child.
I have used anecdotal observation method to document a child with ASD at placement. Based on the observation, I realized he had difficulties with taking turns and often threw tantrums when he wasn’t chosen to perform a task. Based on the observations, I came up with different strategies to support his understanding of turn taking.
Image retrieved from https://slideplayer.com/slide/16784829/
Screening Methods & Assessment Data
According to course materials, there are several screening tools commonly used in Ontario. (Gallant, 2024)
-
Nipissing District Developmental Screen (Also known as Looksee Checklist) screens for developmental progress that is suitable for children from age 0-6. Home | Looksee (lookseechecklist.com)
-
Brigance Early Childhood Screens that offers nine different screeners to assess a child’s skills from age 3-5. BRIGANCE Early Childhood Screen III 3-5 years (casamples.com)
-
Ages and Stages Questionnaire can be used by parents or practitioners to assess the child’s development based on their age. ASQ-3 - Ages and Stages
I have used Looksee Checklist for my previous course in the Resource Consulting program as well as for my workplace when I was preparing for parent teacher interviews. I understand that the results of the screening do not conclude a diagnosis, they help us to pose more insights of each child’s development and find out their needs. A Resource Consultant from my placement at CICC mentioned that they usually use ASQ for screening purposes. The right image is a sample of what the last page of ASQ-3 would look like.
Image retrieved from:
https://agesandstages.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/asq-3-48-month-sample.pdf
Assessment Data
Once the assessment data has been collected, Resource Consultant and Consultee should work closely to analyze the data and look at the result together. Based on the A plan should be later developed to support the child in the school setting and home setting. Strategies to support the child should be implemented in where the learning happens to ensure consistency. (Gallant, 2024) Interventions or strategies must be monitored in a given timeframe to evaluate effectiveness and make changes when needed.
Image retrieved from