Peer Observations

• Before the observation it’s helpful to share basic information about your class including delivery format, level, and class size.
• Have a quick conversation or email exchange with the observer to go over your approach, what you’ll be covering, and any planned classroom activities.
• Share your syllabus or Canvas site to provide context for the observation.
• Choose a session that will give the observer a good sense of your teaching, but don’t feel like you need to perform or change how the class usually runs.
• Review delivery details to get ready for the observation:
  • For in-person and synchronous online observations: Discuss where the observer will sit, whether they will be introduced, type of engagement they will have with the instructor and students during the observation, and what aspects of the classroom learning experience they should focus on.

For asynchronous online observations: Determine which aspects of the online course experience the observer should focus on, such as overall structure or specific modules, organization of content, student engagement or learning activities, evidence of instructor presence, and quality and quantity of feedback. 

• On the day of the observation, the observer should plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. This will ensure they observe the complete classroom experience, from when students arrive until the end of class.
• The instructor may briefly introduce the observer and explain their purpose. Observers should maintain a neutral and friendly demeanor. 

Observe quietly and do not participate unless invited. Take notes on teaching strategies used, student behaviors, how they engage in the activities, and anything that stands out. View Recording a Narrative Log for Classroom Observations for a detailed example. 

• After the observation schedule a meeting within a couple of weeks to reflect on the visit from both perspectives.
• Observer and Instructor should review the goals set down during the pre-observation meeting, then move on to sharing examples of what was observed using the narrative log to provide a fuller perspective. This is the heart of the observation where peers can openly reflect on details that emerge, identify what worked well, ask questions, and share ideas.
• Observers should maintain a friendly and non-judgmental attitude. Remember that the purpose of the observation is to provide food for thought, not to evaluate. Instructors should also maintain a collaborative and curious mindset and be open to constructive feedback.