Citation

Bredekamp S. Early Child Res. Q. 1986; 1(2): 103-118.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1986, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/0885-2006(86)90022-0

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and construct validity of the Early Childhood Classroom Observation, a rating scale used to measure the quality of young children's experiences in programs seeking accreditation by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, a division of the National Association for the Education of Young Children. data, collected in 31 child care centers and preschools, consisted of ratings on the observation scale obtained from teachers, directors, and outside validators. The internal consistency of the scale was analyzed using item analysis and factor analysis. The results of the item analysis indicated that items related to preschool curriculum and staff-child interactions correlated most highly with total score on the scale. The factor analysis yielded three strong and stable factors within the instrument: preschool curriculum, positive interactions among staff and children, and balanced schedule of activities. Results were used to refine the Early Childhood Classroom Observation prior to its national implementation.