Answer:
Explanation:
Observation Tools
Programs must select either the Environment Rating Scale (ERS) and/or the Classroom Assessment Scoring System™ (CLASS™) observation tool and complete the required training for that tool.
Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS)
CLASS is an observation tool that measures the effectiveness of classroom interactions among teachers and children, including emotional support, classroom organization and instructional support. These daily interactions promote children’s social and cognitive development.
CLASS observation tools have been developed for Infant, Toddler, Pre–K, K–3, Upper Elementary and Secondary age groups. At every age level, CLASS focuses on interactions that support learning.
The CLASS Self Assessment Form can be used by directors and teachers to internally identify strengths and focus on changes the program plans to make. Access to the CLASS Self Assessment form.
Environment Rating Scales (ERS)
ERS is an observation tool that assesses the quality of interactions between adults and children, including classroom schedules, materials and spaces available and accessible to children. The use of ERS is a widely accepted method of evaluating and improving the quality of home– and center–based programs.
Environment Rating Scales is broadly defined and currently includes the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale-Third Edition (ECERS-3), the Infant Toddler Environment Rating Scale-Third Edition (ITERS–3), and the Family Child Care Environment Rating Scale–Revised (FCCERS–R).
The ERS Self Assessment Form can be used by directors and teachers to internally identify strengths and focus on changes the program plans to make. Access to the ERS Self Assessment form.
Interested in Becoming a Nebraska Approved Observer?
The Nebraska Department of Education, Office of Early Childhood is recruiting individuals to join a cadre of early childhood professionals to conduct observations for Step Up to Quality in community child care programs, family child care homes, school district programs, Head Start programs and for Results Matter in public school district early childhood programs.
Tools used for observations will be Environment Rating Scales (ERS) for preschool (ECERS-3), infants and toddlers (ITERS-3) and family child care homes (FCCERS-R) and Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) for Pre-K, Toddlers and Infants.
Qualifications
Observers must meet the following qualifications:
A minimum of an Associate degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or a related field; a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, Child Development or related field is preferred
