Case Study: The when, what, and how of observing and assessing practice in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC): Towards an observational framework for Queensland’s Authorised Officers

Client: Australian Department of Social Services

Term: 2018 - 2020

In response to a strong body of evidence documenting the importance of children’s early experience for their life-long educational outcomes, the State of Queensland aims to provide a “great start for all children” through provision of high quality ECEC programs. Essential to this aim is the monitoring and assessment of programs consistent with the National Quality Framework. There are currently inconsistencies in the amount, nature and recording of assessment observations, with potential for inequity across service ratings.

This research project, led by Professor Karen Thorpe, aims to inform the evidence-base to improve quality assessment and rating of licensed ECEC services in Queensland. It seeks to improve observation value, consistency and fidelity through targeted research efforts, and develop an observational support tool for all Queensland Authorised Officers.

The study is a response to demand from the sector, both at policy and practice level, and the outcomes will be directly transferable to practice.