EDTC 809 Assessment and Evaluation

Artifact: Project 1 — Observational Exercise 

Rationale: This observational exercise involved systematic, structured observation within an educational or clinical setting, applying qualitative assessment principles to document and analyze learning behaviors and environmental factors. I selected this artifact because observation is one of the most fundamental and powerful tools in both educational assessment and in the DIR®/Floortime approach I practice clinically. This project strengthened my ability to observe with intention, document with rigor, and analyze with nuance, skills that directly support my work with children and that underpin the field research component of my dissertation. The artifact reflects the integration of my clinical expertise with the scholarly demands of doctoral-level inquiry.

Artifact: Project 2 — Pilot Field Study (Video)

Rationale: This pilot field study, documented in video format, represents the practical application of assessment and evaluation methods in a real-world educational or clinical context. I selected this artifact because conducting field-based research is a central component of doctoral scholarship and because this study allowed me to test and refine the research processes I will employ in my dissertation. The video format also demonstrates my competency in multimodal documentation and my ability to present field research findings in an accessible manner. This work represents one of the most significant scholarly accomplishments of my doctoral program and reflects my readiness for dissertation-level fieldwork.

Artifact: Project 3 — IRB Application 

Rationale: The Institutional Review Board (IRB) application represents a critical milestone in the development of my research identity as a doctoral candidate. This artifact demonstrates my understanding of the ethical principles governing human subjects research, including informed consent, confidentiality, risk minimization, and the protection of vulnerable populations. Given that my research focuses on young children, a particularly vulnerable population, navigating IRB processes with rigor and care is not only an academic requirement but a moral imperative. I selected this artifact because it reflects my commitment to ethical research practice and my preparation for the responsible conduct of dissertation research.