"In the vibrant tapestry of EFL teaching, observation isn't just watching—it's witnessing the magic unfold. Every class is a canvas, and through keen observation, we paint a journey of growth, connection, and language mastery. In the heart of teaching, it's the small moments that echo the loudest. Let's embrace the power of observation as our compass in this shared adventure of language discovery!"
Policy and Procedures for Reflective/Developmental Observation at AYBU SFL
Purpose:
At AYBU School of Foreign Languages, we believe in fostering a culture of continuous improvement for our language instructors. Developmental/reflective observations play a crucial role in this mission, enhancing teaching practice and ultimately leading to a high-quality language education for our students.
Definition:
Developmental observation is a collaborative, non-judgmental process designed to:
Strengthen critical reflection: By observing their own teaching through a structured framework, instructors gain valuable insights into their strengths and areas for development.
Improve teaching practice: Through constructive feedback and dialogue, instructors can refine their instructional strategies, enhance student engagement, and optimize learning outcomes.
Reflective observation is a key component of professional development in our School of Foreign Languages, serving to enhance teaching effectiveness and promote continuous learning. It involves a conscious examination of teaching practices, allowing educators to understand their actions and the impact on their students. This process aids in identifying the strengths and weaknesses of teaching methods, thereby improving lesson plans and overall teaching success for the instructors and , in turn, for the learners.
Reflective observation:
bridges the gap between training and real-world classrooms,
enables the application of new ideas
fosters a sense of community among educators
encouraging mutual reflection and continuous improvement.
facilitates tailored teaching practices.
Thus, reflective observation not only contributes to the professional growth of educators but also significantly benefits the learners.
Lesson Observation Feedback Form
Process
The observation process follows a three-step collaborative approach followed by a Reflection stage:
1. Pre-Observation Meeting (On a need basis):
The instructor and observer discuss the learning objectives, teaching strategies, and desired feedback for the observed lesson.
The instructor completes a Pre-Observation Form outlining details of the lesson plan and desired feedback.
2. Observation:
The observer attends the lesson, taking notes based on pre-determined observation criteria covering pedagogical aspects like planning, teaching strategies, resource utilization, instructor presence, and student engagement.
These criteria aim to provide a comprehensive framework for feedback, while remaining adaptable to the specific context of each lesson.
3. Feedback Meeting:
Following the observation, the instructor and observer engage in a constructive discussion of the lesson, focusing on both strengths and areas for potential improvement.
The observer provides specific feedback using evidence from the observation notes (Lesson Observation Feedback Form) and the pre-observation discussion.
The instructor actively participates in the dialogue, reflecting on their teaching and considering alternative strategies for future lessons.
Reflection:
To solidify their learning, instructors complete a Self Evaluation Form before the feedback meeting. This form encourages introspection on the observed lesson, including:
Student performance and engagement
Areas for personal development
How the observation experience contributed to their understanding of their teaching strengths and weaknesses
Plans for further improvement
2021-2022 Data Drive Link