Classroom observations can be nerve-wracking for even the most exemplary teachers.
Classroom observations can be nerve-wracking for even the most exemplary teachers.
We all know that when we’re being watched, that’s the time everything goes wrong. But we’ve got you covered if you’re stressing about how your upcoming observation will go. The average observation includes:
But fear not. Whether you’re a classroom veteran or a recently qualified teacher, we’ve got the information to help you smash that observation and pass with flying colors. With our top five classroom observations tips, we’ll get you through to the other side:
It can be incredibly tempting to make conversation, acknowledge, or even keep glancing at the person observing our lessons. But we often act differently when we have an audience. Your observer won’t get a real example of how you teach if you can’t help but perform your actions based on what you think they want. It may not be easy, but as The Lettered Classroom says, don’t look up – and you’ll be in a better place to succeed.
Getting the best grade possible is something we’re taught throughout the school. But, when it comes to classroom observations, perfection isn’t everything. It’s likely your observer is looking just as hard for things you do wrong as those you do right, so not going for perfect can go in your favor. According to Teacher Vision, this is known as the ‘hairy hand’ method, giving the person something they can find fault in to avoid them picking apart other areas of your performance.
An authority figure sitting in on their lessons can be intimidating for students. Often, they feel like they will be in trouble for acting normally or as they usually would in class. Explaining to your students the purpose of the observation can help ease this process. It also ensures your students will behave more naturally instead of being on the best behavior for the authority figure. Giving students jobs surrounding the observation, such as being a greeter to the ‘classroom guests,’ can be an excellent way to get them involved a little more in the process.
As teachers, we’re more than used to lesson prep and planning. But this is doubly important when it comes to observations, where you will be graded based on your ability to meet certain standards and requirements. Taking a little extra time to scaffold your lessons properly can offer both a safety net for you and a better plan for your students. Of course, lesson planning doesn’t always work out; but if you have flexibility or a contingency for everything going wrong, you’re far more likely to succeed.
All too often, the soft skills our students need fall to the wayside to make room for more and more academic requirements. But a good teacher should offer the blend of the two, allowing students to engage and be social and sit and learn. Getting your students involved in educational activities that also build their soft skills in leadership, communication, and more can be invaluable. It also shows observers your ability to manage your class beyond sitting quietly at their desks – a vital skill for any educator.
Remember, if your nerves are high, take a deep breath. Also, teachers usually do better when they trust the principal. Do you stress about each observation?