SoTL Commons Conference Presenters
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4.1 – Room 1909
Using Systematic Observation To Improve Your Teaching (pr-2)
Robert Hautala (Western Oregon University): hautalar@wou.edu
Systematic Observation is a system of coding a teacher's classroom behaviors to systematically identify teaching strengths and weaknesses. Time spent TEACHING, OBSERVING, and MANAGING a class, and the use of desirable and undesirable teaching behaviors are coded. Percentages and ratios are determined, to establish a teacher behavior baseline. Plans for specific changes of behaviors are developed, and implemented in a later coded session. This coding is used to determine the plans' effectiveness in prompting more desirable teaching. A database of behaviors and behavior changes can be developed and maintained. In this session, the theory and practice of Systematic Observation will be presented. Group practice of coding, using a taped teaching session, will enable participants to leave with specific coding skills and an implementation plan tailored to their specific needs. The advantages of this approach for evaluating and improving teaching will be discussed, as well as possible challenges and pitfalls.