What are anecdotal records and how do professionals use them? Give an example of how you would develop an anecdotal record.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

: Anecdotal records are informal observations (or notes) about significant events related to a child's behaviors or activities. These notes are usually lengthier, narrative formats and can be factual or subjective based on a teacher's interpretation of events. Whenever a teacher makes a subjective comment, this must be documented clearly in the notes. Such notes can include specific behaviors that occurred, as well as information leading up to the behavior, and information after the behavior occurred. Student answer will vary, but an example of an anecdotal record could be when a child had a teacher-interpreted "meltdown," where the child became angry and laid on the floor screaming. The teacher may take notes about what led up to the moment of laying on the floor screaming. Perhaps the child was working quietly at her desk and her crayon broke. There were no other crayons available on the desk and the teacher was busy working with another student. The teacher may make note of all these actions. She may also make note of how the child was able to calm herself down, or how she required help from others to calm down. The teacher may also make observations about what she felt lead to the "meltdown," perhaps the lack of access to a crayon.
Learning Objective: 5-8: Explain the importance of progress monitoring and evaluation in programs serving young children with delays or disabilities and their families.