Objective observation.

When observing children it is important to write an objective observation. Why is objectivity important?

It is important for educators to be as objective as possible when recording their observations in order to avoid bias. A bias could be defined as a pre-determined way of perceiving, and can be positive or negative. Usually, bias arises out of past experiences. Pre-determined perceptions can influence how an educator records an observation as well as what an educator includes in an observation.

Objective observations are descriptions of what is observed stating the facts and details with as little interpretation as possible.  The objective observer will seek to record simply what they see without offering any opinion. In this type of observation results should be the same among individuals.

Objective information is that which can be observed, seen, tasted, touched, smelled, counted, or heard.

Examples of objective observation.  Bennett speaks into the phone, “hello, yes, please bring milk home.”

Objective observations are used for child assessment and injury reports.

Subjective observations are observations that are influenced by past events, opinions, background or personal experience often biased information.

Subjective information is opinion, judgement, rumor, assumption, belief, or suspicion based on thoughts, feelings, ideas or decisions. Results among individuals vary widely.

Examples of subjective observation.

Bennett talks on the phone, probably imitating how he sees his mother use the phone.

Slide show with objective or subjective questions to answer.

http://www.slideshare.net/janiceaughey/subjective-objective-exercise