What is the purpose of observational assessments?

Observational assessments are primarily designed to describe student behavior within their natural environments. This approach allows educators to gain insights into how students interact with peers, engage in learning activities, and respond to different situations in real-time. Such assessments are valuable in understanding a student's social skills, emotional responses, and overall engagement in the learning process, which might not be captured through standardized tests or written assessments.

Unlike standardized tests, which apply uniform measures across different settings, observational assessments focus on the context in which learning occurs. This method recognizes that student behavior can vary significantly based on the environment and interactions, providing a more holistic view of a student’s capabilities and needs. Understanding these behaviors in context is crucial for developing individualized educational plans and interventions that support ESE students effectively.