Observation Practice
Observation & Data
Observation tools. Classroom observers use a variety of tools to record data. The most common and useful tools are a scripting tool and a seating chart. Templates and samples of these tools are available on the Supervision for Teacher Growth - A Formative Process resource page. These tools are simple enough to create on one’s own. Some observers like to have a notebook for each teacher and draw the tools on the pages of the notebook. In addition, the above look for’s can be incorporated into a Google form and data inputted directly there.
Detail when observing is important. Be careful to record what you see or hear, and avoid writing down your interpretation of what you see or hear. Let the data speak for itself. For example, you might write, “Three students did not begin the practice sheet when directed.” You would not write your interpretation of the event, such as, “Several students are confused.” There might be varying reasons why students did not begin, and you might not be aware of them all. If you stick to the facts of what you see and hear, the data is non-judgmental and the teacher can help interpret it in the post-observation conference.
The Teacher Observation Video below serves as an excellent way to practice using some tools to record factual information about the important elements of teaching outlined above.
