Author(s): Marianne Jones & Marilyn Shelton

Observation and Assessment

Developing a teaching portfolio is a rigorous process, but Marianne Jones and Marilyn Shelton provide practical and comprehensive guidance for in- and pre-service teachers of young children. Portfolios have often been used as a way for teachers to monitor and assess their students' progress, but this book picks up on the current trend of using portfolios to assess the teachers to be themselves as part of their degree requirements. As a professional development tool, portfolios are also useful for classroom teachers in evaluating their practice, and in showcasing their skills and accomplishments for use in interviews. Taking a constructivist approach, the authors focus on how adult learners come into the learning environment, paying attention to varying levels of cognitive ability and the ability to guide and instruct, as they relate to the development of portfolios. Both theoretical and practical, the book addresses issues and mechanics related to process and product, instruction and guidance techniques, the role of reflection, and assessment strategies. With concrete examples, rubrics, tips, and exercises, this book will provide a step-by-step guide to creating a professional teaching portfolio. First published November 2005