Peer to Peer
Peer-to-peer observation program
Overview:
The purpose of a peer-to-peer observation program is to allow for inexperienced teachers to see what more experienced teachers do in the classroom and for experienced teachers to reflect on their practice and explore new strategies. Both experienced and inexperienced teachers can benefit from an outside, “objective” examination of the lesson plan and execution. It gives both the opportunity to receive direct feedback on their teaching, which promotes self-awareness of teaching habits. Finally, the observation and feedback sessions encourage collegiality and create links within and across the programs and disciplines, strengthening each teacher’s practice in the process.
Objectives:
- To improve the quality of teaching in lectures, tutorials and language classes across the College through peer observation and detailed feedback;
- To provide opportunities for colleagues to discuss specific teaching-related challenges, successes, and ideas in a productive and supportive setting;
- To share strategies and techniques for improving the classroom experience.
Method:
The peer observation process will take place over the course of one semester and will involve:
- Two observations sessions with your partner: In one session you will observe your partner’s teaching; in the other session, your partner will observe your teaching;
- Two feedback sessions with your partner: Following each observation, you’ll meet briefly (perhaps over coffee or lunch) and share your observations. This session is meant to lead to an open, productive conversation about teaching ideas, successes, and challenges, both in the session observed and more generally.
Participation is voluntary. Participants will be matched by the coordinator and then asked to arrange observation and feedback sessions together with their partner via email. If at any stage you have any questions about the process, please contact leslie.barnes@anu.edu.au.