Peer Observations as a part of Staff Development
Teachers usually say that they’d love to observe some of their fellow teachers, but if it’s an elective program, it will rarely happen. Peer observation can be an integral part of a school’s teacher collaboration efforts. Staff developers should set up a system in which teachers can plan for and carry out meaningful observations. Make sure you have subs available to cover the observing teachers.

The Purpose of Peer Observations
The purpose of a peer observation should be actually doing the observation. That’s it. You’re creating a culture in which teachers learn from eachother, but be careful how you approach the observations. Don’t underestimate the emotional aspect of allowing fellow teachers to observe. For some teachers, it can be very, very scary. Do not to assign teachers to learn something specific from someone else (at lease not at first). Creating a “master teacher” and “learning teacher” dynamic is very threatening.  Allow them to set their own agenda for the observation.  If all the teachers are required to complete an observation, you’ll have experienced teachers observing rookies and vice versa. You never know what they’ll get from their time: management ideas, specific lessons, organization tips or a new line of communication about instruction.

Taking Notes During Peer Observations
Here are some questions to consider:
1. Objectives - what are you looking for during this observation?
2. Observations - what behaviors did you see from teacher/students?
3. Questions - what questions would you like to ask the teacher?
4. Action Plan - do you see anything you’d like to implement in your own class?

Download a peer observation form.