Peer Observations & Teaching Feedback
Peer observations are an important tool to help develop more effective teaching practices. Benefits are derived both from receiving feedback from peers as well as watching peers teach. CELT supports peer visits by providing formative feedback on course design and instruction using informal checklists and validated review tools for both in-person and online courses.
CELT supports peer observations in two ways: we can train your department to conduct effective class visits, or our CELT staff can conduct classroom observations for you directly.
Steps in the Peer Class Visit Process
Observers class should have sufficient experience with classroom teaching, self-assessment,
and/or mentoring others in teaching. Though content knowledge is not necessary, it
can help give additional perspective on your specific teaching context. The visitor
will need sufficient time to meet initially, conduct the class visit(s), and provide
written feedback.
- Reflect & Self-Assess (Instructor)
- Identify specific areas of your teaching you want to improve or receive feedback on.
- Complete the Teaching Practices Reflection to guide your self-reflection (recommended for both formal and informal observations).
- Hold the Pre-Visit Meeting
- Review the course syllabus and goals for the target session together.
- Clarify expectations and feedback goals (e.g., general teaching style, student engagement, inclusive practices).
- Contextualize the course structure and teaching approach for the observer.
- Schedule the Observation
- Agree on the date(s) for the visit.
- Plan for multiple visits if focusing on specific goals or different teaching formats (e.g., lecture vs. group work).
- Notify Students
- Inform your class in advance that an observer will be joining the session.
- Instructor: For in-person or synchronous online observations, open the session by introducing the observer if appropriate, and then teach the lesson.
- Observer: Use the rubric and observation questions to guide your review. Take detailed notes and be prepared to share your observations. You may also include a summary paragraph outlining your overall impressions and recommendations for improvement. Send your completed notes to your peer prior to your follow-up meeting.
- Observer: Compose a written report based on the class visit rubric and observation form. The report should summarize the observation results, including relevant data and comments.
- Instructor: Review the observer’s report prior to the meeting and compile any questions you have. This meeting provides an opportunity for the observer to elaborate on recommendations and for the instructor to brainstorm new teaching ideas.
- Next Steps: Once the observation is discussed, you may schedule another visit after implementing modifications, or wait to follow up after those changes have taken effect.
This observation cycle is flexible and can be repeated as many times throughout the semester as you and your reviewer would like.