The Art of Observation and Feedback 6

So far, I have discussed various aspects of observation and feedback in this series. In this sixth and final article, I discuss the importance of pre-observation discussions and how they can be conducted.

Pre-observation discussion

An observer will always want to schedule this type of meeting before the observation. Right before a lesson, teachers will normally have their lesson plan and aims ready, and they will be able to explain clearly what they will be doing.

This discussion can help observers narrow their focus on certain teaching areas depending on the type of observation. In developmental observation, for example, the observer needs to know what she is expected to observe. Is it the teacher's language? Tasks? Experimenting with new approaches?

Similarly, the teacher should share as much information as possible with the observer. For example, age, behavior, routine, etc. In addition, trainers can use possible problems to avoid making irrational judgments in their feedback. For example, some learners can be turned off by the fact there is another teacher observing and so the observer acknowledges that this is not a usual occurrence.

It is a good idea for the observer to prepare a list of questions for the teacher about the lesson. This is necessary before the observation, seeing as the discussion takes some valuable time from the teacher, and therefore should be concise but efficient, and not simply chatting and seeing where the conversation goes.

In a pre-discussion, the teacher's lesson plan or procedures are not evaluated. The purpose of this meeting is to get a glimpse of the expectations of the lesson and acquaint yourself with the target learners, not to give feedback. However, the observer may ask for a copy of the lesson plan so that he or she can closely follow the lesson stages during the observation.

Conclusion

Pre-observation discussions are, by far, as valuable as the observation itself. As an observer, you will want to prepare a set of questions and a list of things you would like to discuss with the teacher. Agree on a time, preferably right before the lesson. Likewise, make it as casual and non-threatening as possible to establish a friendly atmosphere. Sit side by side, go through your paper and do not be afraid of asking the teacher questions in case you do not understand certain things in the lesson. Avoid making judgments or denying any aspect of the teacher's lesson at this point.