Observation Training

Learning Objectives: 1.Review the elements of the observation process including: scheduling, pre-observation preparation, post-observation meetings, and summary reports 2.Discuss observer etiquette 3.Review the forms available to guide observations 4.Discuss the behaviors that characterize the elements of effective teaching 5.Review suggestions for the summary report and post- observation meeting

Instructional Activities to be observed include but may not be limited to….. Classroom instruction Clinical instruction Counseling appointment Laboratory instruction Library instruction Online courses

Observations… Contribute to personal and professional growth of both the observer and observed Foster collegiality Encourage us to share ideas Identify projects that can be used in our Faculty Performance Evaluations (improving teaching effectiveness, assessment projects, etc.) Create excitement around teaching

Process Scheduling Pre-observation preparation Observation Summary Report Post-observation meeting

Scheduling an Observation Full-time faculty should include observation plans on their FPE in the fall. Adjunct faculty will be assigned an observation according to the GRCC Adjunct Faculty Evaluation Process. Observers and “observees” will work together to coordinate mutually agreed upon times and dates.

Pre-Observation Contact the faculty to determine areas of concentration Talk about the preferred classroom etiquette Ask if the course instructor has special expectations for the class that you should know about Discuss impact of observer on group dynamics (if applicable) Discuss impact of observer on instructor (if applicable) Contact the faculty to gain access to the online course (if applicable)

During the Observation: Observer Etiquette Consider the following: o Arrive Early o Participation in group activities per invitation o Observing only o Be specific when possible with examples or suggestions with notes on worksheet along with constructive comments Etiquette Discussion o Other things to consider?

Summary Report After the observation o Create a summary report Use observation form as a guide o Length of time to create summary ~ 1hour o Arrange for Post observation meeting: Face-to-face or electronically Within 2 weeks of observation o Submit report to PD/DH and AD

Review Forms Visit the Faculty Evaluation to review the individual formsFaculty Evaluation o Classroom Observation Form o Advising Observation- Peer Form o Advisor Counselor Observation Worksheet o Classroom Observation Librarian o Online Course Observation Form

Using the Forms Note techniques that worked well Make suggestions to try new techniques Be as specific as possible Focus on content as well as delivery Observe students reactions (Are students engaged?) Remain objective and receptive to teaching strategies and techniques that may be different from yours

Discussion What are some elements of effective teaching?

Summary Report Suggestions Plan for ~1 hour to create report Use notes from worksheet Lead with strengths For areas that need improvement, be as specific as possible Be direct Be as objective as possible Appreciate different delivery techniques

Post-Observation Meeting Suggestions Plan for ~1 hour to meet with peer Have a copy of the summary report for each of you Start with statement recognizing snap shot of teaching, impact of observer on class dynamics, impact of where observer sat (if applicable) Ask how the instructor thought the class went Review each section of the report together

Post observation Reflect on what you as an observer have learned from this experience (possibly as part of your FPE report) How will your teaching change as a result of this experience?

Common Questions Q: What do I do if I have concerns post-observation or post- observation meeting? A: Contact your Department Head/Program Director and Associate Dean of Faculty Evaluation and Hiring

Learning Summary: 1.Review the elements of the observation process including: scheduling, pre-observation preparation, post-observation meetings, and summary reports 2.Discuss observer etiquette 3.Review the forms available to guide observations 4.Discuss the behaviors that characterize the elements of effective teaching 5.Review suggestions for the summary report and post- observation meeting

For more information… …please visit the Faculty Evaluation System Training Resources website at and search ‘faculty evaluation’. There you will find PowerPoint presentations, forms, copies of the signed agreements, links to recordings of the trainings, and other helpful information.

Questions?