Reflective Analysis of Portfolio Artifact

Rationale/Reflection
NAEYC Standard:
STANDARD 3. OBSERVING, DOCUMENTING, AND ASSESSING TO SUPPORT
YOUNG CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Candidates prepared in early childhood degree programs understand that child observation,
documentation, and other forms of assessment are central to the practice of all early childhood
professionals. They a) know about and understand the goals, benefits, and uses of assessment. They
b) know about and use systematic observations, documentation, and other effective assessment
strategies c) in a responsible way, d) in partnership with families and other professionals, to
positively influence the development of every child. (NAEYC, 2010)
Brief Description of Evidence:
During the spring semester of 2014 during my ECED 235-Preschool Practicum course, I was
involved in a case study of a child of preschool age. Through communication with the childs parents
I was given permission to conduct the case study. To determine the childs needs and goals I used
informal assessments such as classroom observations, anecdotal records, a portfolio of her work,
communication from her parents, and checklists to document where the child was
developmentally. Through these various types of assessments I was able to determine strengths
and weaknesses, develop strategies and set goals for the child so that her developmental progress
would be positive.
Analysis of What I Learned:
Through completion of this project I learned that by using DAP methods of assessment the
childs needs can be identified. Goals are determined and ongoing assessments need to take place
to ensure that the goals are being met or adjusted. As children grow and develop their needs
change so on-going assessment is necessary. I learned that information from the parents about
their childs development and behavior is vital. Without the on-going two-way parent/teacher
communication I could not provide the families with the information that they need to work
together towards the same goals for their child.
How This Artifact Demonstrates my Competence on the NAEYC Standard:
This artifact shows how during the childs preoperational stage of development (Piaget) DAP
methods of assessment are necessary to ensure that the whole child is being reached. By assessing
with developmentally appropriate methods I can set goals and determine strategies that will affect
the childs development in a positive way. Communicating clearly and honestly sharing my findings,
strategies and goals with the childs family will assist the family in their childs learning as we work
together towards the same positive outcomes for their child.