One method to assess preschool students is through standardized testing. Standardized testing is done in a controlled environment and asks all students to complete the same task. Then, students' performances are compared to other students or nationalized development standards. While standardized testing at the preschool limit is often criticized as being developmentally inappropriate, there are times when it can be useful. For example, standardized testing can help screen all students for disabilities, which enables early detection and intervention. Common standardized tests given to preschool students include the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist and the Battelle test. These exams are usually only administered by teachers or psychologists who have been trained to administer them.
Observations, as an assessment, involve more than just watching children. Anecdotal notes should be taken during the observation. This type of assessment is easy to do and does not intrude upon the child's activity; however, additional steps must be taken to make observations and anecdotal notes effective and reliable assessments. The results of the observation should be compared with developmental milestones or other markers of achievement. Other tools that used while conducting an observation are checklists and rating scales. It is important for record keeping purposes that preschool teachers keep careful track of when and where the observation occurred and how long the child was observed.
Portfolio assessments are a representative collection of a child's work used to make a judgment about that child's growth and progress. Portfolios are a good way to share children's progress with parents. Portfolios usually include drawings and writings done by the child, as well as photos and other materials contributed by teachers. Children should have some control over what material goes into their portfolio, as this encourages a sense of ownership and self-reflection. It is important that portfolios include reflective pieces that show student growth, instead of just a collection of a child's work.
A relatively new method of assessing preschool children is the use of parent reports and observations. Parent ratings are usually done by completing scales or standard inventory. Parent ratings can be helpful in disability screenings and can alert parents to the kinds of developmental milestones their children should be reaching. They also encourage parents to observe their children, gather data and then report that data back to the teacher. This information is then passed on to teachers who can use that knowledge to help facilitate academic and behavioral growth.