Fundamentals of Early Childhood Assessment: Data, Documentation, and Delivery

This comprehensive, research-based textbook equips teachers with the tools they need to comprehend and document the learning progression and academic growth of young learners.

An ideal text to enhance teacher preparatory standards for trainees, the book explains the teacher’s role in assessment; outlines the differences between and purposes for informal and formal assessment strategies; and demonstrates how to select appropriate assessment tools aligned with the intended purpose. Designed to serve as a core text for early childhood assessment courses, with suggested instructor and class activities included at the end of each chapter, the book presents relevant research and anecdotal accounts of how effective teachers can ethically administer assessments to young children and plan learning progressions for students that enhance and promote continued learning. Moreover, the text suggests strategies to communicate the score results to colleagues, parents, and students.

Reflective of current content standards including the Common Core State Standards, Fundamentals of Early Childhood Assessment: Data, Documentation, and Delivery is essential reading for new and preservice teachers learning to design and conduct effective, reliable, ethical, and valid assessments for young learners.

Dia Gary, Ph.D., is Professor and Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator at Central Washington University. Dr. Gary has been the lead instructor for assessment courses for over two decades and is a nationally certificated school psychologist.