Augustana Center for Teaching and Learning
Teaching Observation Group Started
ACTL is helping to facilitate a pilot peer observation program using a group of four new faculty from different departments this spring term. The program consists of regular group meetings and individual observations for each of the members of that group. Each faculty member is observed by the other members of the group within a designated period of time, in this case, within a one-week period. In an initial group meeting, the faculty member to be observed provides basic information about the class to be observed, including the syllabus, learning goals, relevant student information, (i.e., skill or knowledge level of student), and lesson plan(s). The faculty member also can suggest any components he/she would like special observation attention. (i.e., lecture delivery, class organization, effectiveness of methodology, pace of class, student engagement). After the observation period, the group meets again for feedback and discussion of those observations. The second part of the meeting is devoted to the next faculty member to be observed for the next week. The cycle continues until all faculty have been observed and have received feedback.
The feedback is meant to be formative and is not intended to be included in the faculty member's formal evaluation process. It is hoped, however, that faculty will be able to use this feedback to improve student learning and aspects of their teaching pedagogy. Faculty may also receive ideas from their peers about ways to assess student learning by using classroom assessment techniques for their portfolios.
At the end of this program, we will report back on its effectiveness and potential for continuing. If you are interested in participating in this kind of observation program, contact Mike Green in Academic Affairs.
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