Teacher Observations of Preschoolers' Social-Emotional Behavior: A Formative Evaluation

• In Event: Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: Teacher Perceptions of Social Emotional Learning

Abstract

Social-emotional competencies—skills for managing one’s emotions and relationships—are integral to children’s academic and social success. Early-childhood educators need measures to track and support these competencies. One such measure is the Minnesota Preschool Affect Checklist-Teacher (MPAC-T), a teacher observation tool. We conducted a formative evaluation of an online program that trains teachers to use the MPAC-T. Twenty-two early-childhood educators participated in a pretest; a laboratory visit including MPAC-T training, a post-test, and focus groups; and a one-week follow-up. Rating accuracy improved from pre-test to post-test. Post-test ratings were moderately accurate and consistent at follow-up. Rasch measurement analyses identified items that were rated least accurately. Focus group responses highlighted ways the MPAC-T training program can be improved.

Authors

• Claire Christensen, SRI Internatinal

• Katherine M. Zinsser, University of Illinois at Chicago