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Classroom Observation

CTL provides classroom observations for faculty interested in receiving confidential, formative feedback on their teaching at TEDU. Course observations are confidential and evidence-based, developed to support instructors in their teaching practices. Course observations are open to all faculty members at TEDU.

What happens before, during, and after the observation? Performing a classroom observation consists of the following steps:

1. Pre-Observation Meeting: The pre-observation meeting is useful in determining what each faculty member hopes to learn from the observation. Topics that may be discussed in the pre-observation meeting include: 

  • Instructor’s goals for the specific class period being observed.
  • Learning activities that will take place during the class period. Particular aspects of teaching that the faculty member would like the observer to focus on.
  • Logistics regarding time, location, seating arrangement and observer role.

2. In-Class Observation: The class observation allows the observer to document in-class activities, student reactions or interactions, and faculty member’s delivery and approach. We take note of everything going on and use established teaching observation protocols to gather data. Please click here for the “Observation Protocol”.

3. Post-Observation Meeting: A post-observation meeting may be useful in exploring and discussing some of the issues that arise as a part of the observation process. 1-3 days after in-class observation, the observer and faculty member meet for a conversation that will allow them to think about what worked and what didn't in the class, focusing on the goals and issues that the faculty member has set.

4. Observation Report (optional): The observer will provide you with a report, documenting their visit to your class. This report will include information about their observations and both the strengths they observed and suggestions they have for you, grounded in their expertise on teaching and learning. 

To arrange for a course observation, please fill in the course observation form at least two weeks prior to the date when you would like to be observed.