Post-Observation Report
To ensure consistency and clarity, develop a summary report form that serves as a tool for observers to document their findings and offer constructive feedback. This form provides a comprehensive yet concise overview of the classroom observation, highlighting strengths and identifying areas for improvement. It also gives both the observer and the instructor the opportunity to reflect on teaching strategies, student engagement, and inclusive practices in a meaningful way.
Having a consistent format across the department ensures that the observation process is standardized, making it easier to compare and track teaching practices over time. Furthermore, this summary report can be used as part of an instructor’s annual review process, serving as a valuable piece of evidence of teaching effectiveness. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on and demonstrate progress in teaching strategies, which can be important for both professional development and evaluation.
While time-keeping records and minute-by-minute details of the observation are typically not included, the focus of the report should be on the main patterns, key observations, and data points that offer actionable feedback. This approach helps streamline the feedback process while still capturing essential aspects of teaching performance.
The structure below is an example of how you can organize your peer observation report to ensure that all relevant aspects of the observation are captured, and that feedback is actionable, supportive, and aligned with departmental goals.
Please feel free to adapt it to your needs.
EXAMPLE:
POST-OBSERVATION REPORT
Insert Department, Office
Observation Details
Instructor: [Instructor’s Name]
Observer: [Your Name]
Course Observed: [Course Title/Number]
Date of Observation: [Insert Date]
Time: [Insert Time]
Room: [Insert Room/Location]
Instructor’s Goals and TEF Domain Focus
Summary of Classroom Observation
Sample:
Highlights from the Observation
The Instructor:
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Demonstrated effective classroom management (e.g., asked open-ended questions to engage students).
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Used student names and affirmations to encourage participation.
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Incorporated relevant examples to illustrate concepts, enhancing relevance.
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Created a supportive atmosphere by giving space for students to ask questions and share responses.
Classroom Interaction:
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[Example 1: Specific student interaction or teaching moment that was particularly impactful].
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[Example 2: Specific moment of student engagement].
Suggestions for Future Teaching Practice
Potential Areas of Growth:
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Student Engagement: Consider incorporating [specific technique like think-pair-share or small group work] to increase participation and diverse responses.
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Verbal Affirmation: While affirmations are used, increasing frequency of positive reinforcement could help students feel more confident.
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Relationship Building: Increasing personal interactions or sharing more personal experiences may further strengthen rapport with students.
Additional Notes & Observations
[Additional insights from the observer, such as observations on the classroom dynamics, the use of teaching materials, or suggestions for adjustments in teaching style or strategies.]
Follow-Up Actions (Optional)
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[Any follow-up activities the observer or instructor should engage in, such as another observation or meeting to discuss specific strategies.]
Data Summary (Optional)
If applicable, include visual data (e.g., classroom map or a pie chart).