Observing and Recording

Course code ECED 1304

Credit 2.0

Length 40.0 hours

Course outline View

This course focuses on the critical role of observing and recording in programs for young children. Course content highlights the value of observing and recording in understanding child development as well as its role in assessing the design, responsiveness and quality of programs offered in our community.

Prerequisites

ECED 1303.

Course type

This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.

  • 1. The principles of observing and recording children's activities
  • a. Observation and recording in terms of children's activities
  • b. The different types of observation techniques
  • c. The appropriate terminology to describe observation techniques
  • d. Ethical approach to observing and recording (e.g. confidentiality)
  • e. Guidelines that provide a framework for objective and reliable observation
  • 2. Observe and record pedagogical narrations
  • a. Purpose of pedagogical narratives
  • b. How to create a pedagogical narrative
  • 3. Interpret pedagogical narratives
  • a. A child's perspective during ordinary moments in the early childhood setting
  • b. A child's ordinary moment
  • c. How children use their senses
  • d. Observe and record a child using his/her senses to explore and construct his/her world
  • e. Interpret observations to plan curriculum and learning activities

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
72663 September 9, 2026
to December 2, 2026
Lecture VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule
72671 September 17, 2026
to November 5, 2026
Lecture VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.

How to take this course

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Contact us

If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].

† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial.