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Understand observation methods in relation to current frameworks and understand the skills required by the Early Years practitioner when observing children

Case Study

In your last staff meeting a number of your colleagues expressed concern that they were finding it difficult to make time to do their observations. As a result, the office administrator was asked to change the staff rotas to include a specific time each week during which each member of staff could complete their observations. Today the administrator told you that beginning next week you will have from 10.00 am to 11.00 each Tuesday set aside for you to observe your children as a non-participant observer.
  1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this arrangement?
  2. Can you think of a different solution to the problem of not having sufficient time to carry out your observations?
  3. Discuss your thoughts with your colleagues
It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.