Observation- Different perspectives

 

Observation

“Observation involves broadly selecting, recording and encoding behavior for empirical aims of description or development of the theory”

A.K. Singh “Tests, Measurements and Research Methods in Behavioural Sciences”.

Observation is an important tool for understanding the world and making sense of our experiences. It allows us to collect data and gather evidence, which can then be used to support hypotheses and theories. We can say it’s a process of gathering information through our senses, such as sight, taste, touch, sound, and smell. Observations can be made in a variety of contexts, such as scientific experiments, social interactions, and everyday experiences. Observation can also help us to identify patterns, trends, and relationships, and to develop insights and understanding about the world around us.

The practice of scientific observation has a long history, and it is difficult to attribute its origins to a single individual or culture. Observation has been an important tool in Hinduism for thousands of years. In Hindu mythology, many stories and teachings emphasize the importance of keen observation and awareness of one's surroundings. The Vedas, a collection of ancient Hindu scriptures, also contain references to the practice of observation. For example, in the Rig Veda, one of the oldest texts of Hinduism, there is a hymn dedicated to the sun that describes the sun as an object of observation and meditation. In addition to mythology, observation is also an integral part of many Hindu practices and traditions. Yoga, for example, involves practices such as breath awareness and mindful movement that cultivate a heightened state of observation and awareness. Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine in India, also emphasizes the importance of observation in diagnosis and treatment. Ayurvedic practitioners use observation of physical symptoms, as well as a patient's mental and emotional state, to develop a comprehensive understanding of their condition and recommend appropriate treatments. Observation has been used for a wide range of purposes, from spiritual practice to medical diagnosis and treatment. However, the ancient Greeks, particularly Aristotle, are often credited with developing the scientific method of observation and experimentation.

Aristotle believed in the importance of empirical observation and systematic collection of data to test hypotheses and arrive at conclusions. He was known for his detailed observations of the natural world and his classification system for living organisms, which became the basis for modern taxonomy.

In the centuries that followed, many other scientists and philosophers built on Aristotle's ideas and developed new methods for scientific observation and experimentation. For example, Galileo Galilei used observation and experimentation to challenge prevailing beliefs about the nature of the universe, and his work laid the foundation for modern physics. Similarly, Charles Darwin used observation and empirical evidence to develop his theory of evolution by natural selection. It’s an important tool to assess even today. 

Observation has been used as a tool in education for centuries. One notable figure who emphasized the importance of observation in education was the Swiss philosopher and educational reformer, Jean-Jacques Rousseau.

In his famous work "Emile, or On Education," Rousseau advocated for a more natural and experiential approach to education, in which children are encouraged to explore and learn from their surroundings through observation and hands-on experiences. He believed that observation was essential for developing a child's natural curiosity and love of learning.

Many other educational theorists and practitioners have also emphasized the importance of observation in education, including Maria Montessori, who developed a whole educational approach based on observation and hands-on learning, and John Dewey, who believed that observation was essential for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Today, observation continues to be an important tool in education, as teachers and educators use it to assess student progress, identify learning needs, and provide individualized lessons.  Dr. Montessori, in particular, developed a Scientific methodology for objective observation, which is still widely used in Montessori classrooms today. Adults in the Montessori environments extensively use this method, scientifically to assess a child on a daily basis.

As a Montessori adult, It’s not a skill that comes in a year or 2 it needs continuous reflection and correction on a daily basis. With children, Adult grows too if the adult chooses to do so. Still, we cannot say We Mastered Observation skills.……. Montessori Environment gives this opportunity for adults to grow as well along with children. So, It’s fulfilling. 

The goal of objective observation in the Montessori approach is to take the lead of the child to understand the child. Allowing a child to show the way he/she learns. It helps  Adults to gather reliable and valid data that can be used to inform instructional decisions.

Dr. Montessori’s words

“Observation, very general and widespread, has shown that small children are endowed with a special psychic nature. This shows us a new way of imparting education!“. Maria Montessori

Work Cited

A. Donskikh. Significance of Aristotle’s Teaching Practice for Modern Education. IntechOpen. doi: 10.5772/intechopen.84180 ed., A. Donskikh, O. (2019). Significance of Aristotle’s Teaching Practice for Modern Education. IntechOpen. doi: 10.5772/intechopen.84180. Accessed 29 April 2023.