Which type of assessment is least likely to be used in early childhood education?

Multiple choice tests for preschoolers are least likely to be used in early childhood education because this age group (usually defined as children from birth to age 5) is still developing foundational skills in various areas, including language, motor skills, and social interactions. Assessing young children effectively typically requires a focus on their natural behaviors, individual growth trajectories, and learning styles rather than through formal testing methods.

Standardized tests, while they may be used in some contexts, often do not provide a comprehensive view of a child's development or learning in early childhood. They might not take into account the variability in how children learn and express knowledge.

Observational assessments and portfolios are much more appropriate for young children. They allow educators to gather information about a child’s progress and skills through meaningful interactions and collected work over time. These methods capture a child's abilities in a more holistic and developmentally appropriate manner, reflecting their learning processes instead of relying on the static, often limited responses typical of multiple-choice formats.