How can you get the most out of peer observation and feedback?

2 Plan and agree on the process

Once you have a focus and a partner, you need to plan and agree on the process of peer observation and feedback. This includes setting a date, time, and location for the observation, sharing your lesson plan and materials, and deciding on the observation tools and methods. For example, you might use a checklist, a rating scale, or a narrative report to record your observations. You also need to agree on how and when you will give and receive feedback. For example, you might schedule a meeting after the lesson, use a feedback form, or have a coaching conversation.

3 Observe and collect evidence

During the peer observation, you need to observe and collect evidence of your partner's teaching practice. You should focus on the agreed criteria and avoid making judgments or assumptions. You should also respect your partner's privacy and professionalism, and avoid disrupting the lesson or interacting with the students. You should use the observation tools and methods that you agreed on, and take notes of specific examples, incidents, or quotes that illustrate your partner's strengths and areas for improvement.

4 Give and receive feedback

After the peer observation, you need to give and receive feedback on your partner's teaching practice. You should do this as soon as possible, in a private and comfortable setting. You should use the evidence that you collected during the observation, and avoid personal opinions or criticisms. You should also follow some feedback principles, such as being specific, constructive, balanced, and supportive. You should also listen actively, ask questions, and seek clarification when giving or receiving feedback.

5 Reflect and act on feedback

The final step of peer observation and feedback is to reflect and act on the feedback that you received. You should review the feedback and identify the main points, themes, or patterns. You should also compare the feedback with your own self-evaluation and expectations. You should then decide what actions you will take to improve your teaching practice, and set some SMART goals and action plans. You should also monitor your progress and seek further feedback or support if needed.

6 Share and learn from others

Peer observation and feedback can also be an opportunity to share and learn from others. You can do this by joining a professional learning community, a network, or a forum where you can discuss your experiences, challenges, and insights with other teachers or mentors. You can also collaborate with your partner or other peers to design, implement, or evaluate new teaching strategies or interventions. By sharing and learning from others, you can enhance your reflective practice and inquiry skills, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?