Peer Observation

The purpose of peer observation is not to judge and blame one another for their imperfections. It is an opportunity for teachers who think that they don't need support to come out and learn more. They get a chance to see what their colleagues are doing differently, and next time, implement the same technique but with a better approach and your own way to make sure that the students are still comfortable with your teaching method. 

This entry is going to help readers understand peer observation in detail. It will look at its in-depth meaning, how to write one, and the key protocols to conduct one. So, next time, educators who think that this is a random process can rest assured that it is going to be systematic and organised. They can freely take advantage of this approach to improve their teaching methods further.

What is peer observation?

It is a professional development practice where teachers watch each other’s lessons to learn and share effective teaching methods. As discussed earlier, peer observation is not about judging or evaluating your colleagues. It is more about collaboration and developing a mutual learning approach. Through this method, lecturers also learn to develop their styles according to the learners' needs and can better cater to making sure they understand the concepts better. 

Reports show that around 82% of secondary English teachers in a UK city stated that peer observation improved their performance. Students in schools where they used this method scored higher in English and maths. They also said it created an environment where everyone accepts constructive feedback without taking offence.

The above insights show the advantages of peer observation. Teachers should not follow the wrongdoings of their colleagues and should try to stop them if they notice any. They should focus on how the practice benefits themselves and the learners, rather than engaging in activities that could harm them mentally or physically.

Key protocols of peer observation

Peer observation is a very powerful tool for growth if used correctly; however, its success completely depends on how the teachers use the set of protocols. These guidelines do not restrict them from exploring this approach in more detail, but they are also about protecting the students at the same time. They should be the ones to have a pleasant learning experience, and their well-being should not be affected by this process.

Below is the set of important protocols that make sure that the core objective of this approach remains at the centre. Along with that, it benefits the teachers in being better role models that the learners admire and have a meaningful and valuable learning experience.  

Planning and setting objectives

Before the peer observation, both teachers should agree on the purpose and the focus area of the entire activity. They should decide the goal beforehand, whether it is to improve lesson delivery, student engagement, or classroom management. This helps in keeping the sessions focused and creates a chance for meaningful feedback. 

Observation and confidentiality 

During the entire process, the observer should take notes on the agreed areas, without interfering in the class. Moreover, confidentiality is very important, and the notes and feedback should not go to any third party without proper consent. Otherwise, it could also lead to serious legal consequences. 

Constructive feedback and reflection

Peer observation is all about receiving feedback and reflecting on it. The observer also has a chance to provide feedback that highlights the strengths, weaknesses, and how the overall class went. Both lecturers then reflect on each other's strategies and try to improve and devise new and better approaches in the future. 

Follow-up and constant improvement

This process is not a one-time activity; it should be kept going with constant follow-up actions related to setting goals, tracking progress, and regular improvement. It ensures that the insights gained are actually bringing improvements in teaching and contributing to ongoing professional development.  

How to write a peer observation?

To write a peer observation, you should focus on recording clear, specific, and objective notes about the entire session and the teaching methods. However, teachers sometimes don't remember these steps or simply want to rush through the process to save time. This kills the entire purpose of the process. Below are a few ways to write effectively.

• State the purpose and context: You should first explain why you are conducting this entire process. Include the lesson topic, grade, and age group. It is like setting the stage and helping the teachers understand the entire context of the feedback.
• Take notes during the lesson: Those who are a part of peer observation might want to take notes on key aspects like teaching strategies, classroom management, student engagement and participation, and challenges that might have come up. 
• Provide constructive feedback: Both teachers can provide constructive feedback to each other after the peer observation. It could be suggestions on how they can make their teaching approach better, so it would benefit the learners. 
• Reflect and summarise: Conclude the entire observation with a short reflection on the main points, which include both the strengths and areas of improvement. It will encourage the teacher to reflect on the feedback and discuss any further steps.
• Plan follow-up actions: If possible, set future goals or follow-up actions. It could be anything, such as trying new strategies, attending training sessions, or even arranging other observation sessions.