Observations
Lead mentors can help facilitate observations in their schools.
An increasingly vital component of a new educator support program is that educators participate in observations. The decision of how to conduct observations is best left to the participants at the school level to make. The following points might help guide the development of a practice of observation.
Non-Evaluative
The purposes of peer-to-peer observations are meant to be instructive and formative not evaluative.
Walk-through Observations
Walk-throughs are intended to be quickly implemented, non-threatening, and focused on improving instruction which leads to improved student learning. Feeney (2014) discusses ways to design and implement an effective system. Whatever shape the observations take, it is important to remember to do the following:
- Design a Protocol
This ensures that all participants know how to observe and how they will be observed.
- Set a purpose
This lets participants know what they are looking for and what they are expected to demonstrate.
- Remember to debrief and reflect
Doing this helps to ensure that the discussion will lead to meaningful and lasting change in practice.
Observation Forms
Observations forms can be found on our website under Mentor Resources.
Resources for observations
Classroom Observations by Standford Edu
Classroom Walk-Throughs by The Learning Principal
Mentor Observation Forms from USBE Website
Teacher Observation Feedback that S.T.I.C.K.S.
Tschannen-Moran, B., & Tschannen-Moran, M. (2011, October 1). The Coach and the Evaluator. Retrieved August 31, 2015.