Guiding questions for the initial meeting
This set of guiding questions is a sample that can be adapted to fit the specific context of your department, group, or classroom situation. It serves as a starting point for a conversation, not as a rigid protocol, and can be customized based on your preferences or departmental needs.
Classroom Context
- What is the course level? Are there prerequisites or expected prior knowledge?
- How does this session fit into the broader structure of your course?
- What are the unique characteristics of this group of students, and how do these influence your teaching approach?
- How much flexibility do you have in designing and delivering the course?
Goals
- How can this peer observation experience best support your professional development?
- What are your learning objectives for this course as a whole?
- What are your teaching priorities or goals at this point in the semester?
- What specific learning outcomes do you hope to achieve in this particular class/session?
Areas for Focus
- Which aspects of your teaching would you most appreciate feedback on?
- Are there any specific classroom dynamics you are focusing on or hoping to improve?
- When you think of a “successful” class session, what observable behaviors or outcomes would you look for? What indicators or evidence would suggest that students are achieving the type of learning you aim for in this class?
Reflection & Development
- How can this observation contribute to your ongoing growth as an educator and professional development?
- Are there any new teaching strategies or innovations you are exploring that you’d like me to focus on during the observation?
- Are there specific aspects of your teaching that you’re particularly proud of and would like me to highlight in my feedback?
- Are there any challenges or concerns you’re currently facing in this class that you’d like to address?
- What would make our post-observation discussion most beneficial for you?
Observation Logistics
- How would you prefer me to introduce my presence to your students?
- Where is the best place for me to sit in the classroom to remain unobtrusive and not disrupt the flow?
- What observation style would feel most aligned with your teaching approach?
- What is the date, time, and location for our debrief post-observation meeting?