Gesell Assessment System Examiner Levels

Below we outline the journey of a GDO-R Examiner, from the foundational trained examiner to the National Lecture Staff designation. At each level, a different set of skills is expected opening up a new set of opportunities for using and teaching others to use the GDO-R.  

GDO-R Examiner Level 1
25%

2.5-6-Year Old Examiner

Level 1 Examiners have trained in basic administration and analysis of results of the GDO-R assessment, but Gesell has not assessed their aptitude and strongly recommends that they complete Level 2 before being hired to deliver assessments to children.

● Satisfactory completion of a Gesell Developmental Observation-Revised 2.5 - 6 Administration and Results Workshop

● At least 20 2.5 - 6-year-old practice assessments have been completed

● Up to date with renewal requirements

6-9-Year-Old Examiner (optional)

● Satisfactory completion of the GDO-R 2.5-6 Examiner criteria

● Satisfactory completion of a GDO-R 6-9 Administration and Results online training

● At least 20 6-9-year-old practice assessments have been completed

● Up to date with renewal requirements

GDO-R Examiner Level 2
50%

Experienced GDO-R Examiner

Level 2 Examiners are approved by Gesell to administer the GDO-R assessment through outside entities, but not through Gesell directly.

● Satisfactory completion of all Level 1: GDO-R Examiner criteria

● A total of at least 75 2.5-6 and/or 6-9-year-old assessments have been completed

● Satisfactory completion of the following webinars:
     ● Beyond Admissions and Placement: How to use the GDO-R for Curriculum Planning and Individualized Instruction
     ●  Gesell Early Screener (GES) Administration and Scoring Webinar
     ● How to Virtually Administer the Gesell Assessment System Webinar


● Acceptance by Gesell based on submission of a Candidate Application Form


GDO-R Examiner Level 3
75%

Qualified GDO-R Examiner

Qualified GDO-R Examiners are approved to offer official GDO-R assessments, through the Gesell Program in Early Childhood directly.

Prerequisites for application: (does not confirm Qualified Examiner status)
● Satisfactory completion of all Level 2: GDO-R Examiner criteria

● A total of at least 150 2.5-6 and/or 6-9-year-old assessments have been completed

To apply, please begin by submitting a Candidate Application Form. Ultimately, to be considered for acceptance all applicants will need to complete the following:
      ● Interview with Gesell Executive Director
      ● 2 approved completed 2.5 - 6 Year Old CRF's
      ● Video of candidate satisfactorily administering the 2.5 - 6 Year Old GDO-R

Upon completion, Level 3 status may be conferred at the discretion of the Gesell Executive Director. Level 3 Examiner's must demonstrate an exceptionally high level of understanding of the GDO-R.

GDO-R Examiner Level 4
100%

National Lecture Staff

National Lecture Staff Qualified Examiners are the only  examiners approved to offer official Gesell Program in Early Childhood Assessment System workshops, and only through the Gesell Program in Early Childhood directly. NLS are not sanctioned to offer GDO-R trainings or other Gesell content independently.

Completion of Level 4 requirements does not ensure admission to the NLS. Acceptance into GDO-R Examiner Level 4: NLS requires not only satisfactory completion of the following steps but also acceptance by the Gesell Executive Director. 

Prerequisites for application:
● Prior acceptance as a Level 3: GDO-R Examiner in the last 5 years

● Satisfactory completion of two 2.5 - 6 Year Old GDO-R Workshops (hybrid or online) led by 2 different trainers, in the past 5 years. This includes submission of all work required to complete the workshop at a level reflecting a Level 4 mastery of the GDO-R.

To apply, please begin by submitting a Candidate Application Form. Ultimately, to be considered for acceptance all applicants will need to complete the following:

● Submit a video of candidate satisfactorily teaching someone, as in a workshop format, how to administer any one of the following tasks (live review can be scheduled at candidate's request and expense):
          ● Cubes
          ● Copy Forms
          ● Incomplete Person
Mastery of content, teaching skills and the dynamic nature of the presentation will all be assessed. NLS must be well versed in current adult learning principles and use best practice in their video submission. If approved, candidate will be invited to initiate the next step.

● Satisfactory completion of a co-presentation of a GDO-R Workshop in partnership with an assigned NLS mentor. Again mastery of content, teaching skills and the dynamic nature of the presentation will be assessed. Additionally candidate must demonstrate proficiency in technology and online learning platforms necessary to lead a GDO-R workshop. No support can be needed.

If invited following co-presentation, a successful interview process with Gesell Executive Director may follow. Upon completion, Level 4 status may be conferred at the discretion of the Gesell Executive Director. Level 4 Examiner's must demonstrate mastery of the GDO-R as well as an exceptionally high level of presentation skills and knowledge of adult learning principles and practice.

Once accepted into Level 4: NLS, in order to maintain NLS status, Level 4 Examiners must:

       ● Annually submit a new signed Policies and Procedures Handbook and letter of agreement.
       ● Annually, lead one or more GDO-R workshop.All facilitated workshops must be completed at a satisfactory level of competence in GDO-R content as well as technical capability for all online portions of the workshop.
       ● Demonstrate a high level of understanding of GDO-R theory and practice, and the evolving science of child development relevant to the GDO-R.
       ● Receive consistently high evaluations from training participants.
       ● Reflect on feedback and incorporate suggested improvements into their own training protocol,              as requested by Gesell leadership.
       ● Annually, participate in one GDO-R training led by a fellow NLS and offer feedback.

See here a full description of the NLS role and qualifications.

*Criteria may be amended and/or waived for veteran assessors or for other circumstances at the discretion and approval of The Gesell Program in Early Childhood.