Application: Observing and Analyzing Developmentally Appropriate Practice: Physical and Social Environments

At this point in the course, you have learned about the importance of positive social and physical learning environments in which attachments are supported, children’s behavior is guided in positive and respectful ways, and the design of the program is in line with developmentally appropriate practice. In other words, the environment—both the physical design and the adults interacting within it—supports and enhances the development and learning of each and every toddler. For this Application, you will watch and analyze a media segment of a toddler setting in order to demonstrate your knowledge of and ability to apply what you have learned.

To complete this Application, do the following:

Plan

•Review the Chapter 2 and Chapter 8 readings from Week 3.

•Print out and review the Media Analysis Sheet linked below.

Media Analysis Sheet Click for more options 

View and Document

Watch the media program “Virtual Field Experience™: Care and Education in a Toddler Room.” As you watch the program, take careful notes on how the specific practices listed on the Media Analysis Sheet are (or are not) being implemented within the toddler setting.

•Complete the Media Analysis Sheet, noting evidence of practices demonstrated in each of the areas specified.

•Document your comments, questions, and reactions as you complete the sheet.

Reflect

Considering the media program and what you have learned thus far in your coursework, summarize the following in a Reflection:

•The ways in which attention, approval, and attunement were supported within the environment

•Strategies used to establish and maintain a positive learning environment

•How the physical environment supported toddler development and learning, both from the child’s and the teacher’s perspective

•Suggestions of ways to better support attachment, approval, and attunement; establish a positive learning environment; and/or create and maintain an effective physical environment

For this assignment, submit your Reflection.

Assignment length: 2 pages