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Task 5. Discussion on Observation

Task 5. Discussion on Observation

Aim

Discussing interesting questions on observation

Tasks

For Student Teachers

  • Reflect on the topic of observation in the classroom. Answer the questions “What are important aspects and what might be challenges of having an observer in your classroom?” Think about organisational issues like introducing the observer to the students, where the observer will sit, feedback of the observer, peer observation, etc.
     
  • Click on the link and answer the two questions in the Communication Tool.
     
  • Read the answers of your peers and reply to at least two by using @sign

For Academic and School Mentors

  • Your students' are invited to answer the questions: “What are important aspects and what might be challenges of having an observer in your classroom?”.
  • Read your students’ answers to the questions above in the Communication Tool
  • Suggest new aspects, and themes for the discussion

A Note on Observation

Observation is not about judgement, it is about learning from others...

In this short note, we would like to encourage positive thinking about observation. Many teachers may consider observation as a stressful and threatening experience, whereas there is a value for the observer and the observed teacher.

For the observer: there is an opportunity to discover effective teaching strategies, to trigger reflections about ones' own teaching. 

For the teacher being observed: the observer can provide an 'objective' view of the lesson and collect information about the lesson that the teacher who is teaching might not be able to gather. Observation provides an opportunity to get feedback on ones' teaching, and it is a way of developing self-awareness of one's own teaching.

For both: there is a social benefit. It brings teachers together to discuss ideas, concerns and problems.

Methodology of Lesson Study

A triad of teachers (student teachers) work together to target an identified area for development in their students’ learning is an example of a meanignful peer observation experience.  Participants collaboratively (1) plan, (2) teach and observe a series of lessons, (3) using ongoing discussion, reflection and expert input to track and refine their interventions. You can learn more about the Lesson Study Methodology.