Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 3.15: Use longitudinal studies to observe, assess and plan for children’s needs
Learning outcome: Be able to use observations to assess and plan for the developmental needs of children in line with current frameworks
Assessment criteria: Carry out Longitudinal Studies using methods of observation to assess the changing developmental needs of children
For this assessment criterion, you will be required to conduct a longitudinal study within your own Early Years setting.
A range of methods should be used to collect data. This includes observations and interactions with the child. A list of some of the observation methods you may consider can be found here. You should also speak to your supervisor and the parents/carers of the child in order to gain their consent to carry out the study.
The focus of your study should be on a single area of development, and it must span over a period of at least six weeks, however, you may wish to cover a longer timescale. This will enable you to see any changes and identify areas where further support may be needed.
Once you have collected your data, you will need to analyse it and write up your findings. The evaluation should include a discussion of any changes that you have observed and how these relate to the child’s development. You may wish to use the EYFS Development Matters guidance when writing up your findings.
You will then use this data to plan and implement an activity for the child that takes into account their interests and developmental needs.