Fostering Effective Teaching and Learning Through Classroom Observation and Feedback

Tayeb IdihyaInspector of English, Tiznit

R.C.E.T.P (C.R.M.E.F), InezganeMay 24th, 2016

Outline: I. Classroom Observation (CO): - What is it? - Why is it Important? - What is it like in the EFL context/ Classroom? - What are the purposes of CO? - What are its benefits? II. Effective Teaching & learning: - What is it? - Key Ingredients? - Our model of effctive teaching & learning - Why do we need a model? - Our model CO instrument

What is meant by ‘classroom observation’?

‘Classroom observation’ refers to all occasions when learning and/or teaching activities are observed for a specific purpose by someone other than the class teacher.

Purposes of classroom observation

As part of continuing professional development, for example:• sharing effective practice• shared learning and collaborative development• peer observation• as part of coaching and mentoring arrangements• specialist guidance or advice – such as on teaching techniques,curriculum areas, use of ICT equipment, etc.

Purposes of classroom observation

To monitor the quality of teaching, including:• as part of performance management cycle • as part of inspection arrangements.

What is it like in the EFL context/ Classroom?

- What are some things you might look for?

- How is observing a second language classroom different from other classrooms?

What is it like in the EFL context/ Classroom?

For example, it would be difficult to imagine an EFL classroom without pair work activities. In other classes and other subjects one might observe group work activities; however, due to the linguistic content, there would be significant differences between the interactive exercises. In other subjects group work or pair work might be optional; but in a language classroom they are absolutely necessary. Furthermore, beginner SL learners require much more structure in an activity than beginners in other courses, because the structure increases the likelihood of success.

What are the benefits of CO?

Benefits for the observer…

Observe new techniques, strategies, ideas and resourcesGain insight into one's own strategies and techniquesObserve student reactions from a different perspectiveHelp create a professional learning community with the best interests of the students in mindPersonal Professional Development and growth

What are the benefits of CO?

Benefits for the observed…

Chance to see class through someone else’ eyesChance to re-evaluate the classroom from a different perspectiveChance to receive input (suggestions, ideas, resources) from a colleagueCreation of a professional learning community with the best interests of the students in mindPersonal Professional Development and growth

Effective Teaching and Learning

No single model of what effective teaching and learing is:

-So many variables depending on context-Approach & methodology adopted-Teacher qualifications……..

Key Ingredients

- These key domains will probably be found in most observation instruments:

- Planning and Preparation- Knowledge of Content and Pedagogy- Classroom Management- Instruction- Professional Responsibilities

Key Ingredients

Planning and Preparation:-Choice selection of objective/ Statement of outcomes-Sequencing of tasks & activities-….

Key Igredients

Knowledge of Content and Pedagogy:

-Knowledge & mastery of subject matter-Knowledge of students level, age ….-Knowledge of content-related pedagogy

Istruction:-Directions & procedures-Questioning & discussion techniques-Monitoring student learning-………

Key Ingredients

Professional Responsibilities:-Maintaining accurate records: lessons/ tests/ grades/ portfolios-Reflecting on teaching-Participating in the community (school/ ELT…..)-Growing & devloping personally & professionally

Key ingredients

Classroom Management:-Time management-Smooth functioning-Management of resources: materials /equipment/ technology-Manageing student behaviour: rules /discipline…

Why do we need a model?

- Unless observers and teachers are using the same “common denominator” for describing effectivepractice, then large numbers of teachers will have no clear idea of what is expected of them or how to improve their performances.

- Why do we need a model?

Key Concept Observations and Feedback for Teachers: - helping define clear goals and creating a shared purpose; - providing an objective method for measuring progress towards goals and - providing a framework for giving constructive and focused feedback that helps teachers incorporate higher levels of desired behaviors into their interactions with students in the classroom.

Thank You For Your Attention