Assessment of a simplified procedure for the observation of preschool children in the CEAPE program

Abstract

A survey to be came acquainted with the criteria used by teachers in classifying the preschool children was carried out. In continuation a simplified instrument with 15 selected items concerned with some aspects of the children's behavior and designed to be used by the teachers was organized. The results of analysis were compared with those obtained by more sophisticated mechanisms (IADPE, Instrument II and Behavior Scale) applied to the same children. The results show correlation to age but also show a constant improvement in behavior according to the length of time the children had attended the program. These results, even though preliminary indicated that the "Observation card" (Ficha de Observação) could give the teachers good information and call their attention to some important aspects of preschool children's behaviour.