3.2 (3S1C, 3S2C): Ability to collect and record performance data on students under the direction of a licensed teacher, while respecting student confidentiality and the laws regarding ethical practices of assessment.

Introduction

Acquiring and using objective observation and data keeping are important skills for all paraprofessionals. Much of the information required to let the team know whether or not students are gaining new skills is acquired by careful observation and good record keeping. In addition, observation will keep the team posted on whether or not the students are learning and using the functional skills necessary to let them achieve the objectives and long-term goals that are outlined in their educational plans.

Objectives

As you read the objectives for this unit, think about and rate your current knowledge using the following scale.

1. I do not understand this.
2. I do understand this.
3. I understand this well enough to use in my work.
4. I could teach others about it and use it in my work.

Upon completing this unit, you will:

• Describe the importance of keeping accurate, relevant, on-going data on the progress of each child.
• Define behavior in observable, measurable terms.
• Understand what is meant by "objective observation."
• Be familiar with ways that observations are recorded.
• Identify the purposes and problems inherent with using behavior observation as an information source.
• Use systematic procedures for observing and recording behavior.

The Para eLink is sponsored by the Minnesota Paraprofessional Consortium, in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Education, located at the Institute on Community Integration in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota.

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