Teachers Observing Peers: Schedule a visit this semester

Faculty members interested in incorporating greater active learning in their classrooms have the chance to observe their peers from a variety of disciplines as they implement techniques in a live or online classroom setting. The Center for Teaching and Learning’s Teachers Observing Peers (TOP) program is an informal, voluntary observation between faculty, and it is for professional purposes only.

“For spring 2020, we have 10 TOP teachers opening their classrooms for visits across the semester with 11 different face-to-face and three online courses available for observation,” said Tracy Rock, a faculty fellow with the Center for Teaching and Learning. “Whether you are an instructor who has been using participatory strategies and/or interactive methods for years or are trying to get ready to teach your first class, you will benefit from the classroom observation by getting new ideas for effective practice and reflecting on your own practice.”

Review the list of available classes and instructors available for observation. Using the Peer Observation Request Form, faculty members can submit a request for an observation date/time that fits their schedules. The TOP instructor will confirm the request and schedule a debriefing session, which will take place for after the observation to allow clarifying questions and the sharing of comments/reflections on the class session.

Bobby Hobgood, Ed.D., from the Department of Languages and Culture Studies, said, “Perhaps one of the best professional development exercises takes place when educators share and reflect upon a common instructional experience. The TOP program offers me the opportunity to share and grow in my perspective on active learning. Discussing instructional decisions with peers provides a mirror for self-reflection and a springboard for collegiality across campus.”

Donna Sacco, Ph.D., from the Department of Special Education and Child Development, noted, “What I find most valuable about being a TOP Teacher is the debrief. I have had some really exciting conversations with fellow professors during the debrief session. Learning about their classes, which practices they use, and how their particular disciplines lend themselves to active learning have been inspirational for me.”

Observation visits can be scheduled through Friday, April 10.