Observation - The Keystone Skill

This workshop introduces the keystone skill of observation. Observing children as they interact with the learning environment and other people provides the necessary information to abide by the Montessori maxim “follow the child.” After completing the lessons, workshop participants will be able to contribute to the effective running of the classroom. Each lesson consists of a topic and a hands-on assignment in the accompanying user manual. Work through them at your own pace any time of the day or night. To maximize your learning, however, we suggest you spread out the lessons over the course of a week or more so that you can spend time focusing on your new understanding from each topic in the classroom the next day. You will need your Guide on the Side to complete the referred to exercises during this workshop.  Workshop Contents Blueprint for Learning The Keystone Skill Root Causes of Behavior The Scientists in the Field Observation Practices Course Summary and Takeaway Skills

Welcome to the Observation – The Keystone Skill Workshop! This first lesson, Blueprint, will provide an overview of the workshop and the topics to be covered. Video Length: 5:08

This lesson, Observation, conveys the concepts behind Dr. Montessori’s notion of observation, and how it is one of the fundamental aspects of her learning approach. Video Length: 3:58

This lesson, Scientists in the Field, covers preparing the learning guide in how to approach the observation process, similar to the way a scientist would prepare to observe their experimental process. Video Length: 12:19

This lesson, Observation Practices, demonstrates the observation process in action and gives you the opportunity to do it yourself using real classroom footage.  Video Length: 18:53

This final lesson, PowerTools, summarizes the workshop in a collection of skills that can be used in the learning environment. These tools are collected on this PowerTools handout, which you can use as a handy reminder in the field. Video Length: 7:08

Consolidate your knowledge by completing the "In the Field" assignments using the Observation Templates.