Many early years students and practitioners can struggle with how to observe children, knowing what makes good observations, as well as how to use them and why they matter so much. This is a very practical 'how to' book on observing young children and preparing a child case study, with helpful guidance on how to go about this, including where and how to begin and proceed; appropriate techniques and related processes as well as possible pitfalls. In addition the book includes examples of good observations which show how your observation can be evaluated, analysed and used. The book covers the whole process of embarking on the study or observation of a child (or children) including sensitive areas or areas to avoid. It begins with choosing a child to study; the ethics of the study; ways of gathering data and tools to use; observations that are useful; examples of short child case studies and longer child case studies; how to select material to include; and, analysing or interpreting the material. One child (Georgia) is used as a focus example throughout the book so that you can really get to grips with how a good child observation study unfolds and develops. Further shorter examples also illuminate the challenges and practicalities of doing your child observation case study.
Observation of young children, their development, and planning for next steps is a fundamental requirement of early years practice. Awareness of appropriate techniques, understanding what you are observing, as well as what it all means in terms of planning for learning is an essential yet difficult skill to acquire. This is a very practical book on observing young children that supports you in preparing a child observation case study. Taking a step-by-step approach the book covers the whole process beginning with choosing a child to study before discussing the fundamentals of child observation. It includes invaluable guidance on: The ethics of your study Appropriate techniques and tools for gathering data Observations that are useful How to select material to include Analyzing or interpreting the information Potential pitfalls The book includes many examples of good observations, which help show how your own observations can be evaluated, analyzed and used. In addition there is a fully worked example of a child observation case study in the penultimate chapter. If you are studying early years or early childhood studies at foundation, undergraduate or Master''s degree level then this book will really help you get to grips with how a good child observation study unfolds and develops. Cath Arnold works at the Pen Green Centre, an internationally renowned Children''s Centre in Corby, UK. She is author of Observing Harry (Open University Press 2003). This is a fascinating and accessible new book on child observation case study for students and professionals. Cath Arnold integrates theoretical perspectives and practical examples of observations with remarkable clarity in this comprehensive guidance to child case study. Shirley Allen, Senior Lecturer Early Childhood Studies, Middlesex University It is quickly evident to the reader that ''Doing Your Child Observation Case Study'' is steeped in the expertise and extensive experience of its author. The practical guidance it offers is likely to prove invaluable for childhood studies students and early career researchers in the field. Yet Cath Arnold''s ''step-by-step guide'' goes far beyond the practical. She shines vital light on the complex nuances of values, beliefs, ethics and rights inherent in child case study and addresses with clarity and credibility the crucial role that theory can play in supporting our understanding of children''s actions. This text is an excellent addition to the childhood studies bookshelf. Dr Jane Murray, Centre for Education and Research, University of Northampton, UK Cath Arnold has provided a rich resource for those who want to understand more about children, their wellbeing and their learning. This detailed approach to child observation offers guidance on why, how and what to observe, and how to interpret what is observed. Rich in examples collected over many years ''Doing your Child Observation Case Study'' will get many early years practitioners started on their own learning journeys as they watch and engage with young children to develop detailed impressions of children''s development. Professor Cathy Nutbrown, Head of The School of Education, The University of Sheffield In this new book Cath is once more supporting early childhood educators to engage in the strong UK tradition of child observations; the tradition of Piaget, Novara, Darwin and Susan Isaacs. She has developed her own understanding of the importance of observational studies building on the giants whose shoulders we all stand on. This powerful publication combines insights into both the theory and practice of developing child observations in an early years setting. Cath demonstrates how detailed and powerful records of children''s learning and development speak to practitioners and hold their value over time in a world where early educators are increasingly obliged to devote enormous amounts of their energy filling in forms, schedules and are hard pressed to reject the pressure of tick box developmental checks and imposed tracking schemes. This book lights the way to a much deeper way of documenting children''s learning and development. As educators we need to match children''s learning with rich curriculum content and this book reminds us that we can only achieve this critical pedagogical task if we have closely watched what it is that excites and interests each individual child. ''Doing Your Child Observation Case Study'' shows us the way to be well informed practitioners able to offer children a really rich learning experience. Dr. Margy Whalley, Director of the Research, Development and Training Base at the Pen Green Centre and Centre for Children and their Families
"The book is an invaluable resource for all those on Early Years foundation degrees, degrees in Early Childhood Studies and pathways towards EYPS. It enables students to appreciate the central role of observation within Early Years education and its implications for Early Years practice. It examines current initiatives and policies as a context for discussing the theoretical background, and draws on a number of methodologies in order to develop clear and systematic ways of making observations, recording data and using it to evaluate and assess children."--BOOK JACKET.
This accessible guide takes you through the process of designing, conducting and writing up a research project using case study methods. In his characteristic warm and friendly style, Gary Thomas covers each step at a confidence-building pace, helping you to get to grips with the theory and practice of doing a case study. Focusing on vital issues like validity, reliability and quality in research, the author helps you ensure your research is rigorous and methodologically sound. This third edition: · Offers an expanded discussion of key ethical issues in case study research · Provides up to date information about using social media in research · Presents a new navigation tool to help you plan your case study project · Enables you to develop the skills you need to become a critical and reflexive researcher Covering international examples of case study in practice and accompanied by downloadable checklists and templates, this book is the perfect companion to help you successfully complete a case study.
This book is about Gabby, an inquisitive girl who leads her own learning very effectively with support from the adults in her life. The author, her grandmother, draws on seven years of data from diaries, photos and Gabby’s own writing to consider her development and learning when cared for by both her parents and grandparents. Gabby builds on her experiences with her Latvian mother, English father and her elder sister as she faces and deals with transitions as she grows up. The chapters are presented in a chronological order as a ‘running record’ going from 0-1 year right through to 6-7 years and can be analysed through a range of theories and frameworks. With chapters considering theory and the data separately the reader can reach their own conclusions on child development before exploring the author’s analyses. Each chapter also considers the relevance of Ofsted’s Intent, Implementation and Impact framework and other theories and schemas. This book about one child's early development and learning is a fascinating insight into how young children learn for those studying or working in the early years field. It includes access to an online learning centre of video clips to bring the descriptions to life and provide further insight into Gabby’s development. "This book is a testament to the power of quiet, attentive observation and its application to a range of disciplines beyond the therapeutic. ‘Observing Gabby’ will be of interest to Early Years practitioners who are keen to provide a setting conducive to holistic education, and those interested in the links between emotional well-being and learning." Sarah Fielding, Infant Observation "This carefully structured text will be helpful for anyone teaching or studying child development particularly with the addition of video materials to view alongside the book." Mary Briggs FRSA, CMathTeach, APECS, SFHEA, FCCT, Principal Lecturer and Programme Lead for Childhood and Education (ECS and Ed Studies), Oxford Brookes University, UK "This rich account of Gabby’s early childhood development takes the reader on an inspiring journey." Shirley Allen, School of Health and Education, Middlesex University "I would heartily recommend this book to any early years practitioner, who wants to better understand child development, improve the quality of their child observations and to develop their skill in linking the two seamlessly." Andrea Layzell, Project Lead and Tutor, Bradford Birth to 19 Teaching School Alliance Dr Cath Arnold has worked in the field of Early Childhood for over 40 years, as a practitioner/teacher, researcher, lecturer and author. Her particular interests include child study; schemas and parental involvement. This is her fifth book focussing on close observation of the spontaneous actions of young children.
Studying for an Early Childhood Degree, based on the practices of The Pen Green Centre for children and families, exemplifies how student-practitioners can foster strong communities of learners and create student-teacher connections that remain long after studies are complete. The Pen Green Integrated Centre in Corby, UK, has developed a unique approach to adult education. Highly qualified tutors, with their wide-ranging experiences, have written Studying for an Early Childhood Degree in collaboration with current and former students. It illustrates different ways to complete assignments, providing 20 case-studies of work that achieved an excellent grade from students of different professional, geographical, ethnic, educational and socio-economic backgrounds; it also explores the rationale behind what contributed to these excellent final grades. Each chapter, linked to the key themes of the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Early Childhood Studies degree, includes discussions, reflections, commentary and extracts from students’ works through Levels 4-7, as well as suggestions for further reading. Studying for an Early Childhood Degree is an essential read for learners as well as educators and practitioners. It will be a key resource for students having varied learning needs, professional heritages, writing styles and interests. Further, it will also support other educators to consider the unique and often competing demands of being an adult in higher education.
Evolved through conversations with key early childhood education experts, Schemas in the Early Years focuses on the value of ‘repeated patterns’ of action or ‘schemas’ in young children’s play. It stimulates readers to ask questions of themselves, to watch children closely, and to create a dialogue with parents and other educators as well. Contributors to this fascinating book discuss their observation of children in naturalistic situations when they are deeply involved in play and identify topics or themes that can be linked to and inspire professional development opportunities. This book provides an antidote to beginning with the curriculum rather than the child and really considers children as learners. Each chapter focuses on young children and schemas, considering a wide age range from babies to children attending statutory schooling. Schemas in the Early Years is an accessible and inspiring text and serves as essential reading for educators wanting to think further and in more depth about schemas. Newcomers to schema theory or anyone currently using schema theory to understand children will also find these enquiries useful. All royalties from the sale of this book will be donated to Shelter – the housing and homelessness charity.
Are you struggling with your dissertation? Have you started too late and now you′re panicking? Help is here! Your Dissertation in Education is a straight-forward, plain English guide to doing and writing your project. It will take you from start to finish, with practical and friendly advice on every page. This second edition includes: - A new Foundations section with the concepts and tools you need to get started - An expanded guide to methodology and writing about methods - A new chapter on mixed methods An essential companion on your dissertation journey, this book is ideal for students across education, including teacher training, early childhood and education studies. The Student Success series are essential guides for students of all levels. From how to think critically and write great essays to planning your dream career, the Student Success series helps you study smarter and get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips and resources for study success!
Children are already learning at birth, and they develop and learn at a rapid pace in their early years. This provides a critical foundation for lifelong progress, and the adults who provide for the care and the education of young children bear a great responsibility for their health, development, and learning. Despite the fact that they share the same objective - to nurture young children and secure their future success - the various practitioners who contribute to the care and the education of children from birth through age 8 are not acknowledged as a workforce unified by the common knowledge and competencies needed to do their jobs well. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 explores the science of child development, particularly looking at implications for the professionals who work with children. This report examines the current capacities and practices of the workforce, the settings in which they work, the policies and infrastructure that set qualifications and provide professional learning, and the government agencies and other funders who support and oversee these systems. This book then makes recommendations to improve the quality of professional practice and the practice environment for care and education professionals. These detailed recommendations create a blueprint for action that builds on a unifying foundation of child development and early learning, shared knowledge and competencies for care and education professionals, and principles for effective professional learning. Young children thrive and learn best when they have secure, positive relationships with adults who are knowledgeable about how to support their development and learning and are responsive to their individual progress. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 offers guidance on system changes to improve the quality of professional practice, specific actions to improve professional learning systems and workforce development, and research to continue to build the knowledge base in ways that will directly advance and inform future actions. The recommendations of this book provide an opportunity to improve the quality of the care and the education that children receive, and ultimately improve outcomes for children.
Engage learners with this new and fully updated edition that covers core topics across all aspects of Early Years. This comprehensive full-colour textbook will build knowledge and understanding, from traditional theory to cutting-edge research, and from updated legislative and regulatory frameworks, to effective practice examples. - Benefit from the expert knowledge of authoritative contributors, skilfully edited by Dr Francisca Veale. - Content carefully matched to core modules offered on higher level early years programmes. - New and relevant material covering literacy, numeracy and digital literacy. Who is this book for? Early Years for Levels 4 & 5 and the Foundation Degree is an authoritative and accessible course textbook for anyone studying at Levels 4 and 5, whether a Foundation Degree, HNC/HND, the first year of an undergraduate programme or other higher vocational qualifications related to early years or early childhood studies. It is also relevant to those working towards Early Years Professional Status (EYPS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS).
