Success in Professional Experience Ch 4 Observation-8

Chapter 4: Observations

Introduction

• Importance of observations in pre-service teacher education

  • Vital for building relationships with students and mentor teachers

  • Metaphor of a river representing the journey of observation

Role of Observation in Practice

• Observations provide opportunities to see theory in practice

  • Essential for improving teaching and learning

  • Requires time, patience, and skill to reflect on teacher practices

  • Important for addressing mentor feedback

• Purpose of this chapter:

  • Guide on what to observe and how to write observation notes

Why Observe?

• Classroom observation is ongoing, even after becoming a teacher

• AITSL (2014) emphasizes observation as integral to professional practice

  • Supports reflection and improvement in teaching and student learning

• Bandura's Observational Learning Theory:

  • Observation enhances learning and skill acquisition

• Importance of focused and planned observations

Case Study 4.1: Jake in Chemistry Class

• Jake fails to observe effectively and loses interest

• Importance of understanding focus during observations

Conditions for Effective Observations (Bandura, 1986)

1. Attention

• Difficulty in observing everything happening simultaneously

• Personal characteristics affect attention during observations

2. Retention

• Retaining the details of observed practices is crucial for reflection

• Understanding the reasons behind actions aids in future application

3. Reproduction

• Ability to incorporate observed strategies into personal teaching practices

4. Motivation

• Pre-service teachers need to be motivated to learn from observations

Case Study 4.2: Kylie in a Grade 5 Classroom

• Kylie’s observations were too judgmental rather than professional

  • Importance of maintaining professionalism in observation notes

Importance of Observations in Professional Experience

• Observations linked to teaching quality and student learning

• APST Standards supporting collaborative observation practices

Points to Consider for Lesson Observations

• Importance of observing various aspects of classroom life

• Pre-service teachers should aim to understand:

  • Student learning dynamics

  • Effective communication skills

  • Planning and assessment roles

What to Observe in the Classroom

• Effective observations focus on specific aspects to avoid overwhelm

• Suggestions for initial focus areas:

  • Classroom environment, decor, student interactions

  • Teacher strategies for different student abilities

  • Technological integration in lessons

Observation Checklist Recommendations

• Focus on manageable criteria to optimize observations

• Suggested areas for classroom observation include:

  • Classroom arrangement

  • Attention-getting cues

  • Classroom rules and consequences

  • Usage of technology

  • Assessment methods

Observing Communication

• The importance of communication in teaching and learning

• Classes require engaging communication for effective learning

• Observe both verbal and non-verbal communication strategies

Observing Lesson Dynamics

• Key aspects to observe during lesson delivery

  • Lesson opening techniques, objectives, and transitions

  • Routines established by the mentor teacher

  • Instructional methods and question techniques

  • Monitoring student understanding through feedback and assessment

Interaction Analysis

• Importance of observing student engagement and interactions

• Student dynamics influence learning experiences and teaching choices

• Reflect on how these interactions can inform personal teaching methods

Effective Observation Techniques

• Focus on more than noting; engage with students during tasks

• Define specific focuses to maximize learning outcomes

• Awareness of Bandura’s conditions helps tailor observation strategies

Writing Observation Notes

• Keep notes factual and non-judgmental

• Seek clarity from mentor teachers post-observation to fill gaps in understanding

• Utilize notes for reflection and professional assessment

Daily Summaries for Reflection

• Summarizing observations aids in processing experiences

• Incorporate learned strategies into personal teaching practices

Conclusion

• Observations are essential for professional development

• Encouragement towards being purposeful and reflective in teaching journey

References

• AITSL Publications and Bandura’s Theories, various years mentioned for credibility and authenticity.