Objective Vs Subjective Observations

Objective Vs Subjective Observations

Why Do We Observe?

-to watch children with the clear goal of studying a specific behavior or ability. 

-to challenge and support the children.

-to develop realistic curriculum and goals.

​-to protect and keep children safe

​-identify behavioral developmental challenges

​How to Observe

 

• ​with confidentiality in mind, protecting the rights of the child

• ​It is best to observe from a distance without the child knowing they are being observed

• ​Do not distract the child/ren

• ​know your objectives

• ​obtain permission

• ​record accurate/subjective information

Objective Observation

-states the facts

-begin by recording a list of behavior patterns

​

​-avoid: labeling children, unqualified conclusions, making assumptions, comparing children

​

Subjective Observation

-rely on opinions

-not beneficial to studying children

Decide which statements about the following children are Subjective and which are Objective

Poll

Mark looks away when the teacher showed him a snake. He said, “I don’t like snakes, they feel funny.”

• Subjective

• Objective

Poll

Tyler is a sweet boy and gets along well with the other Children.

• Objective

• Subjective

Poll

Maddie wanted to swing but two others were already there. She

picked up a rock and threw it at them.

• Subjective

• Objective

Poll

Parker usually likes to play by himself, but chose to be with Zac today. If he does choose a friend it is usually Zac or Jacob. He loves to be funny.

• Objective

• Subjective

Poll

Kamryn is barely 3 and has a hard time staying awake. Mom says she gets enough sleep so we wonder if it could be a physical problem or an emotional problem.

• Subjective

• Objective

Poll

Billie can’t do anything by himself because he is the youngest in a large family and they do everything for him.

• Subjective

• Objective