I believe we should still assess children in the middle childhood age on social-emotional skills. It seems that schools only focus on standardized test that measure reading, math, writing and science skills but not social-emotional. Yes, we observe and assess social and emotional skills during early childhood because that is when these skills are truly developing but children of all ages still go through changes and are still learning how to regulate their emotions. Academic skills are very important for children during middle childhood but as educators I believe we should still focus on social-emotional skills because these skills will get children through all types of issues or events in life.
Research shows that Asia is still coming up with ways to assess children and questioning if it is an integral part of the curriculum. I feel that the US also has had this questioning as well but I am a firm believer that curriculum and assessment are part of each other.
One thing relating to assessing young children that I think is important is OBSERVATION. It is not just about quick evaluation or assessments it is important to observe children through out the times in the classroom to truly see their development and learning.
Francis & Taylor. New Directions in Assessment of Young Children in the Asia-Pacific Region. Early Childhood Development and Care. February, 2011. 181(2).
I think it would be difficult to assess social emotional skills of older children, but agree that it does play a role in their development. I too think observation is key. I often say "i know my kids" in my class, yet their abilities have a much wider range than what I check off on my assessment list.
ReplyDeleteLorren, I also agree that there should be an assessment that test children as a whole and not just academic skills. I also found your research on Asia interesting and sparked my curiosity to learn more. Do they have an type of standardized testing in place or are they still finding a way to test?
ReplyDeleteLorren,
ReplyDeleteI am happy you point out that this age group of children are still learning to regulate their emotions. If there were a way to assess emotional skills of school-age children, those students who need help may have a better chance of getting it. Long-term, I imagine it would greatly benefit those students academically and benefit society as a whole as well!
Thanks for sharing!
Lydia
Lorren,
ReplyDeleteI also agree with your comments. The whole child needs to be observed and assessed in a variety of ways. One test does not show a true picture of the student or the teacher.
Cindy