Most Common Questions Concerning the
Environment Rating Scale Assessment Services
Why is Oklahoma Using the Environment Rating Scales?
The environment rating
scales have been highly researched and proven to provide accurate assessment
of a child care setting located in a child care center, family child care
home, or school-age program. These scales are internationally recognized
for their validity and reliability and depict what research supports as
best practices when providing developmentally appropriate environments
for young children.
Is the ERS Assessment like my CDA Assessment?
While the ERS Assessment
is similar to the CDA Assessment in that an outside person comes to your
child care site or home, the ERS Assessment focuses on the interactions
and environment in which the children learn and play. The CDA assessment
focuses mainly on the provider. The assessments are two different visits
and processes. For more information on obtaining a CDA Assessment contact
one of the CDA Advisors
listed on the CECPD website.
Where do I go to find additional resources to assist me with preparing for the assessment process?
CECPD has pulled together a large array of resources for the provider to access on their own. These resources are available on websites, through local libraries, through lending libraries at local resource and referral agencies, or by purchase. Please click on the following links for more information:
- Resources to Assist Providers in Preparing for the Environment Rating Scale Assessment:
- For More Information and Added Notes Relating to the Scales Access www.fpg.unc.edu/~ecers
Tell me more about the assessment day.
What does the ERS
Assessor look at?
The ERS Assessor will observe all aspects of the environment provided
to young children. He/she will observe basic care routines and learning
activity times with regards to health and safety and developmentally appropriate
practice. In a home, this would include all areas of the home relevant
to the family child care home setting. In a Center, the Assessor will
view one classroom representative of each age group in relation to the
scale being performed. Classrooms will be selected randomly using a process
provided by the Assessor on the day of the assessment.
Is it a test? What score do I have to make to pass?
Although there is
a score associated with the ERS Assessments, the main idea is to identify
and acknowledge the program's strengths and weaknesses. With this information,
the program is encouraged to create a plan of action for future growth
and quality improvement.
How long does the ERS Assessor have to watch me?
The ERS Assessor will
observe the classroom or home for a minimum of 3 hours. There are a few
items on the scale that will require interview questions. It would be
a good idea to allow about 1 hour - 2 hours to answer these questions.
Environment Rating Scales are to:
* Help you
notice strengths and areas to work on in your classroom or home setting
* Help you provide a quality environment for the children in your
care
* Help you grow as a child care professional
Should further information
be necessary on the Environment Rating Scales process,
call the ERS
Helpline at (405) 799-6383, Extension 226 or (888) 446-7608, Extension
226