FLO MicroCourse: Strengthening Our Teaching Through Reciprocal Peer Observations

Teaching is often a solitary practice; we rarely invite colleagues into our classrooms or see how our colleagues teach. This is often due to academic structures and because it can feel intimidating. However, discussions and feedback from peers can help us strengthen our teaching skills, including online teaching.

During this Facilitating Learning Online (FLO) MicroCourse, you will learn about research on “paired teaching” and “Teaching Triangles,” two programs that promote professional development through mutual observation and discussion. Key features of productive mutual observations include:  

1. Each instructor articulating their own goals for learning from the process,   
2. Giving space for both the teacher and the observer to learn from observations, and 
3. Establishing what makes productive (and non-productive) feedback.  

This FLO MicroCourse will prepare participants to engage in reciprocal peer observations for professional development, if they choose to do so (optionally after the course). Participants will have the chance to identify where they might like peer feedback on their teaching and examine any potential fears around being observed. They will gain practical experience in observing teaching, giving productive feedback, and learning from these observations. We will discuss equity considerations in observations and giving and receiving feedback. At the end of the course, participants interested in continuing reciprocal observations will be paired with a fellow participant.

Learning Outcomes: 

Upon completion of this course, participants will have the opportunity to:

• Feel excited about learning from reciprocal observations  
• Recognize the value of teaching observations for both the observed teacher and the observer 
• Reflect on areas of their own teaching where they would like feedback and/or inspiration 
• Know features of positive productive feedback, including equity considerations in giving and receiving feedback 
• Experience reflecting and giving feedback in a practice observing scenario online 
• Reflect on potential fears or challenges of being observed

Participants should anticipate at least one hour per day of asynchronous learning. Two optional synchronous sessions are planned for the week: 

1. Tuesday, November 19, noon to 1:00 p.m. PT 
2. Friday, November 22, noon to 1:00 p.m. PT 

While attendance is encouraged, the sessions will be recorded for those who cannot attend.

Facilitator: Linda Strubbe

Click "Register" to sign up for this MicroCourse. Registration closes November 15, 2024 at 2:00 PM PT.