Early Years Evaluation (EYE)

Prospective users

Aims & approach

The Early Years Evaluation (EYE) enables early identification of learning needs, empowering schools and families to implement targeted instruction and interventions, helping every child enjoy a strong start to school. The 5 domains include:

• Awareness of Self and Environment: Understanding of the world and ability to connect with home and community experiences.
• Social Skills and Approaches to Learning: Ability to cooperate, follow rules, and engage in learning activities.
• Cognitive Skills: Thinking and problem-solving abilities, including memory and attention.
• Language and Communication: Ability to understand and use language effectively.
• Physical Development: Fine and gross motor skills, such as holding a pencil or running 1.

EYE can be used to:

• Improve classroom instruction
• Assess the effectiveness of ECEC and kindergarten programs
• Reduce inequalities of priority populations
• Screen the prevalence of students with diverse learning needs
• Allocate educational resources

EYE consists of two complementary components that assess these domains.

• The Direct Assessment (EYE-DA) is designed to measure the developmental skills of children through an individually administered, play based assessment. Identifying children at risk of learning difficulties prior to school entry allows parents, schools, and communities to work together to improve children's outcomes.
• The Teacher Assessment (EYE-TA) provides a systematic framework educators can use to structure their observations and informal assessments. Early base line data allows teachers to provide formative, instructionally relevant programs, monitor progress and evaluate growth.

Together, these tools provide a clear, data-informed picture of each child's developmental profile. The EYE system also includes EYE-100, a suite of 100 targeted learning activities directly linked to assessment results, enabling educators to deliver differentiated, inclusive instruction from day one.

Implementation support

• Implementation training webinars or modules
• Ongoing helpdesk, email or phone support

Evidence

The EYE domains are consistent with the frameworks established by UNICEF and the US National Reading Panel. It has been in Australian schools for 11 years.

The validity and reliability of the tool has been thoroughly assessed, and its positive impact is supported by testimonials from educators and school leaders.