Assessing Projects : Monitoring Progress
Observing Learner Behaviours
Anecdotal notes are frequent written descriptions of observations while learners are working. They provide a way to record aspects of learners' learning that might not be identified by other techniques, such as physical behaviours and attitudes. Anecdotal notes should be taken on all learners, although some learners may warrant more entries than others.
Observe learners while they are working in groups, at locations in the classroom specifically designated for assessment tasks, or while completing parts of a project. Objectively record what learners say and do. The notes should serve as a reference to observed behaviours, attitudes, skills, concepts, processes, misconceptions, or insights learners exhibit while working. The notes can also be used as a cross-check for learner’s logs or journals.
It is helpful to have specific ideas about what to look for in the observations: levels of understanding, strategies and abilities, or types of thinking. Observe and make notes on group work during a problem-solving activity or investigation. Circulate from group-to-group as the learners work and listen to their conversations, make notes on what they understand, what they are having difficulty with, and how they are processing the information. Review the notes and look for patterns. The anecdotal notes may start to show that a learner is consistently losing focus during group work. The notes may also show that the same question or misunderstanding keeps arising. Once again, use the recorded information to determine what may need clarifying or how to modify teaching to best meet the learning needs of the learners.
Taking frequent observational notes can be a challenge for secondary teachers with large classes and limited time with their learners. Careful planning can make it possible to collect anecdotal information even under these difficult circumstances. To make the best use of this strategy, teachers can
- Precisely identify and describe anticipated behaviours before taking notes so they can be recorded in as few words as possible.
- Develop a shorthand system that fits your needs and subject area.
- Use customized checklists of frequently observable behaviours whenever possible.
- Create a schedule for observing learners, allowing more time for learners who will need more feedback and support.
- Use ICT to record, save, and organize your notes.
After a project has been completed, the sequence of dated anecdotes can serve as a record of learners’ development. Because anecdotal notes concentrate on describing learner performance over a period of time, use them to assess long-term goals such as self-concept, collaborative group work, strategies development, work habits, knowledge attainment, and interests or attitudes.
