The Habit of Kidwatching: by O’Keefe
In the study referred as Kidwatching, collecting
multiple forms of data can help drive the lessons that are formed in the
classroom. As a special education teacher I am constantly updating data on each
student to track growth and to ensure their goals in their IEP are appropriate
and are being met. Having different techniques of kids watching can only expand
the information that can be obtained on each individual student. It is
important to collect data both directly and indirectly. This will show how the
student does when they are working with a teacher and when they are working
independently. If you are able to sit and observe the student on their own you
can pick up more things that the student is interested in and what you need to
do to ensure your teaching strategies are playing with the strengths the
student already possess. When you are “coaching” you are able to meet with each
student and observe them closely. Overall, kidwatching can be very benefical
for both the student and the teacher to gain important information and allow
the student to feel comfortable with their independent time given.
Amy, you are right! It is important to observe students while they are working with you, as well as working independently! I love how you said you could build on the strengths the student already has! If we can meet the students where they are, we can build on that. Making students feel successful is so important. We as teachers can teach them so much more when they feel confident in their abilities. Thank you for your thoughts!
ReplyDeleteHi Amy, I love how you are applying kidwatching to your students using their IEPS to guide what you are looking for but also looking for the strengths that your students have. I appreciate that and I know your students and their parents do too!
ReplyDeleteSincerely,
Dawn