What is peer observation?

Peer observation is the observation of teachers by teachers. It is often done on a reciprocal basis ie Teacher A observes Teacher B and then Teacher B observes Teacher A.

The objective of peer observation as part of the SPRINT process is to provide opportunities for you to reflect on your teaching in a calm and supportive environment. It has already been a very useful aid to teachers in schools in Zambia.

By using peer observation teachers have an opportunity to learn from each other. Where there is trust between the participants, teachers can share ideas and suggestions in a way that helps both.

An important aspect of peer observation is that it should not disrupt the teacher being observed or the learners in the class. This can be more easily achieved if classroom activities are the focus of the observation, rather than a full lesson. Observing sections of a lesson, rather than full lessons, provide teachers with more opportunities to observe, to be observed, to have time to give or receive feedback and to act on specific achievable improvements for the next time they use that approach or activity.