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ANECDOTAL RECORDS
INTRODUCTION: An anecdotal record is an observation that is written like a short story. They are descriptions of incidents or events that are important to the person observing. Anecdotal records are short, objective and as accurate as possible.
DEFINITION:
According to Randall, Anecdotal records are a record of some significant item of
conduct, a record of an episode in the life of students, a word picture of the student in action, a word snapshot at the moment of the incident, any narration of events in which may be significant about his personality. It is a brief description of an observed behaviour that appears significant for evaluation purposes. A factual record of an observation of a single, specific, significant incident in the behaviour of a student. A verbal snapshot of an incident. A simple statement of an incident deemed by the observer to be significant with respect to a given pupil. The spot description of an incident, episode or occurrence i.e., observed and recorded as being of possible significance. An objective description by the teacher of a significant occurrence or an episode in the life of the pupil.
MEANING:
Informal device used by the teacher to record behaviour of the students as observed from time to time. It provides a lasting record of behavior which may be useful later in contributing to a judgement about a student. It gives useful information concerning an individual. The observer should be objective and has to maintain various kinds of social relationships in which the individual takes part, e.g. Parent-child, pupil-teacher, social interaction, etc. Teachers will note down the important happenings pertaining to a pupil for future reference. The teacher describes the events he observed carefully and writes his comments, takes the signature of the student; he will also sign and keep it into the file, and will be considered for evaluating the particular student. CHARACTERISTICS OF ANECDOTAL RECORD:
Anecdotal records must possess certain characteristics as given below-
They should contain a factual description of what happened, when it happened, and under what circumstances the behaviour occurred. The interpretations and recommended action should be noted separately from the description. Each anecdotal record should contain a record of a single incident. The incident recorded should be that is considered to be significant to the student's growth and development of example. Simple reports of behaviour Result of direct observation. Accurate and specific Gives context of child's behaviour Records typical or unusual behaviours
PURPOSES OF ANECDOTAL RECORDS
To furnish the multiplicity of evidence needed for good cumulative record.
To substitute for vague generalizations about student's specific exact description of behaviour. To stimulate teachers to look for information i.e. pertinent in helping each student realize good self-adjustment. To understand individual's basic personality pattern and his reactions in different situations. The teacher is able to understand her pupil in a realistic manner. It provides an opportunity for healthy pupil- teacher relationship. It can be maintained in the areas of behaviour that cannot be evaluated by other systematic method. Helps the students to improve their behaviour, as it is a direct feedback of an entire observed incident, the student can analyse his behaviour better. Can be used by students for self-appraisal and peer assessment.
GUIDELINES FOR MAKING ANECDOTAL RECORDS:
Keep a notebook handy to make brief notes to remind you of incidents you wish to include in the record. Also include the name, time and setting in your notes. Write the record as soon as possible after the event. The longer you leave it to write your anecdotal record, the more subjective and vaguer the observation will become. In your anecdotal record identify the time, child, date and setting Describe the actions and what was said. Include the responses of other people if they relate to the action. Describe the event in the sequence that it occurred. Record should be complete. They should be compiled and filed. They should be emphasized as an educational resource. The teacher should have practice and training in making observations and writing records
ITEMS IN ANECDOTAL RECORDS:
To relate the incident correctly for drawing inferences the following items to be incorporated. The first part of an anecdotal record should be factual, simple and clear. Name of the students Unit/ ward/ department Date and time Brief report of what happened. The second part of an anecdotal record may include additional comments, analysis and conclusions based on interpretations and judgments.
USES OF ANECDOTAL RECORDS:
Record unusual events, such as accidents.
Record children's behaviour, skills and interests for planning purposes. Record how an individual is progressing in a specific area of development. It provides a means of communication between the members of the health care team and facilitates coordinated planning and continuity of care. It acts as a medium for data exchange between the health care team. Clear, complete, accurate and factual documentation provides a reliable, permanent record of patient care.
ADVANTAGES:
Supplements and validates of other structured instruments.
Provision of insight into total behavioural incidents. Use of formative feedback. Economical and easy to develop.
DISADVANTAGES:
If carelessly recorded, the purpose will not be fulfilled.
Subjectivity. Lack of standardization. Difficulty in scoring. Time consuming. Limited application.
