Early Childhood Field Note Observation Form

Your Name____________________     School or Center Name____________            Date__________

Name of Teacher Observed_____________    Age Group_____________________

1. Describe the classroom setting and climate.  (Tone of teachers’ interactions with children, children’s work displayed, room arrangement, evidence of classroom procedures posted, general impressions of the learning/caregiving environment)
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2. Describe how teachers are helping children to learn and develop. Consider opportunities for learning and development in all domains, including social, emotional, cognitive, language, physical, and creative. (Note that in early childhood settings, teaching often takes place in the context of play and routines. Thus, teaching may take place as children play in centers or eat a snack, as well as when teachers lead circle times or small group activities.)
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3. Are learning and development taking place?_______  If so, what does the teacher do to create this environment?  How can you tell? If not, what could be changed to facilitate learning and development?_________________________________________________
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4. What percentage of the children are actively engaged in learning activities or classroom routines?  __________     Do you see any difference in participation based on race or gender?___________________________________________________________
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5. Observe the methods used by the teacher to encourage and teach appropriate behavior (rules or guidelines posted, rules or guidelines reviewed with children, “guidance talks” when children engage in undesirable behavior, consequences enforced, rewards, positive reinforcements). What are the children's reactions to the guidance and behavior management strategies? Does it appear to be a well managed classroom?  ______  Make specific notes to support your opinion. ____________________________
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6. Describe your overall impressions of the school or center as a whole.  (physical environment, location, staff)
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7. Other thoughts, ideas, or questions about this observation
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