CIDR - Classroom Observation

Classroom Observations are an increasingly common method for assessing teaching. For TAs, an observation by a supervisor or a fellow TA may be a component of your department's TA training program. Faculty may find colleague "peer reviews" a valuable addition to your tenure files. Whatever your situation, there are strategies you can employ in preparing for, conducting, and following up on your observation that can increase its usefulness to you.

Observations are most effective when approached as a collaboration meant to benefit all involved. For the one being observed, an observation can provide useful feedback that might not be revealed by other assessment methods. And the one observing can learn from seeing a fellow teacher in action.

CIDR Resources

	CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletin Classroom Observation CIDR Teaching and Learning Bulletin, 1(4) Classroom Observation Notes (PDF) A sample guide for taking notes before and during an observation. Post-Observation Meeting Guidelines Suggestions for ways to structure a post-observation meeting.

	CIDR Web Guide Sources of Data for Assessment of Teaching “sources of information to consider when you are assessing your teaching, and links to ways that CIDR can help you gather and work with information from each source”

	Consult with CIDR CIDR consultants are available to observe your class, and to help you develop a plan for peer observations of teaching in your department. To schedule a consultation, call 206-543-6588, or contact us by email to arrange an appointment.

Additional Resources

Changing Practices in Evaluating Teaching: A Practical Guide to Improved Faculty Performance
Seldin, P. & Associates. (1999). Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing.

Peer Review of Teaching: A Sourcebook
Chism, N. V. N. (2007). Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing. A framework for designing and implementing peer review, and guidelines, protocols, and forms for each task involved in an effective system of peer review.

Making teaching community property: A menu for peer collaboration and peer review
Hutchings, P. (1996). American Association for Higher Education.

Peer Review of Teaching
Office of the Provost, North Carolina State University

Peer Review of Teaching Project - Making Visible the Intellectual Work of Teaching
University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Peer Review of Teaching
University of Wisconsin - Madison: "This site provides information to ... instructors and administrators who want or need to be involved in peer review of teaching."