#ALedchat Archive
#ALedchat is a weekly chat on Twitter about education topics. It is held each Monday from 9-10pmCST. While the discussion on #ALedchat continues on Twitter well beyond our weekly one-hour chat session, this platform affords us the opportunity to extend, expand and share the conversation with an even greater audience. Educators from across the state of Alabama, and the world, can come here to find encouragement, support, resources, professional growth opportunities and advice, while providing the same to their colleagues.
Monday February 22, 2016 10:00 PM EST
Welcome to ! Topic is teacher observations. All are welcome to participate.
Tweets for the next hour are devoted to Come join in on the discussion
For the next hour, my tweets will be devoted to chatting about teacher observations in . Join us!
Christy Bice, AP at Haleyville Elementary and co-moderator for . Looking forward to learning with you tonight!
Tell us who you are, where you are tweeting from, and your tole in education.
Welcome to ! I'm excited about the topic has for us tonight, and I love learning with you!
Darrin Lett, CTE Director, Florence City Schools... Ready to learn about teacher observations tonight!
Holly Sutherland, Principal of HHS, Alabama. Co-founder of this chat and . Welcome all! **role in education :)
I'm Melissa Mann special education teacher with the Madison County school system
Good evening all. Kendrick Myers, AP at Opelika High School - ready to share and learn
Tina from TN, instructional technology specialist, hello tweeps!
Welcome, Melissa! Can't wait to learn with you all tonight!
****Q1 coming up in 1 minute****
Hey just saw the topic & had to jump in-Ben Dean O' Ss & in Reno NV-trying to double chat tonight
Jennifer Hogan, Hoover High AP, co-founder of this chat and . Headed to this week... anyone else?
Elaine Frix, 3rd grade teacher at Haleyville Elementary.
Welcome back, Kendrick! Always enjoy your input!
Barry Wiginton
Tech-N-Motion Specialist at UNA
Regional technology support and Pd
Jeff Jones, principal at Guntersville Middle School
Glad you're here with us, Ben! Looking forward to your input!
Welcome back, Elaine! Always great to have HES represented.
Elyse Aldridge, 9th WH, Haleyville High
Q1: Why are teacher observations important?
Eric from St. Louis joining in for a short time tonight
Welcome back, Jeff! Great to have you!
Hey, Tina. Glad you're here tonight!
Jennifer Northrup, third grade math and science, Oak Mountain Elementary
Jimmy Shaw. Co x 4 moderator of Glad to be here. My lot in life is servitude in education. Currently https://t.co/muFuULTRlI
Tell us who you are, where you are tweeting from, and your tole in education.
hello everyone, Debbie from Baldwin Co Ed tech/instructional Coach
A1: to ensure accountability and encourage growth.
Hey Kendrick! Glad you made it tonight! Hope you enjoyed the tweets I tagged you in today! :-)
Carol Bohatch teacher at James Clemens HS Madison City.
A1 can't expect what you don't inspect-provides opportunities 4 conversations 2 make both parties better https://t.co/UMLh8xMhTi
Q1: Why are teacher observations important?
accountability or accounting of our abilities
Sensei Wiginton! Glad to have you https://t.co/AuWy4GOgWW
Barry Wiginton
Tech-N-Motion Specialist at UNA
Regional technology support and Pd
A1: if used correctly, can be a source of reflection & goals for future growth
I'm in the car and on the way right now! https://t.co/4Z9rJ8QSsc
Jennifer Hogan, Hoover High AP, co-founder of this chat and . Headed to this week... anyone else?
A1 to create a culture of "growth mindset" & accountability
A1: Learning for continued growth....we can always improve and sometimes an observer can see what we can't
Alyson Carpenter, Athens City
A1 they could offer other teachers to observe a technique/practice
A1: Obs allow admins to see the great things going on in classrooms. Conversations following allow Ts to note areas of S/W.
Awesome! I'll be there Wednesday night. Are you going to edcamp Thurs?
A1: Teacher observations allow us to see the learning taking place and opens the door for growth conversations.
Going to edcamp Thursday?
A1: A snapshot of learning is important for productive conversation & meaningful growth
A1- sometimes its the only time admin can get in the classroom, a way to stay connected
****Q2 coming up in 1 min****
A1 To help teachers be reflective of what their Ss are learning, how their Ss are learning, and determine what they need.
A1 An additional tool we use to improve instr practice, S engagement, increase rigor and relevance and increase our toolkits
A1: Feedback to inform instructional practice and provides a platform for sharing great instruction.
Keri Smith, Madison County,AL, Principal at New Market School
Great point! I think the use of video is a valuable tool, too!
Already love how we are focusing on the growth mindset in Q1 answers!
A1 hopefully observations are open to colleagues as well as Admin, critical friends & opening collaboration/communication
A1 I agree with the growth piece but how are we using that to makeTt their highest selves in education? Just asking
Welcome! Jump right in Keri!
A1: As an admin, I love being able to share the great things I see going on in classrooms. We have experts down every hall.
Q2: What should be the goal of observing Ts from the administrative perspective?
A1: focus on what students are doing, too-not just teacher
Right, Holly. Important that there is a connection to conversation and classroom implementation
Jeff Mathheus. AP Madison County Schools
I believe we need to make it a priority, if not the priority, to get into classrooms.
A1:Allows Ts to step back and take a look at what they can improve upon.
A1 - Different twist - Ts observing other teachers. We need to make more time for this.
A2: The goal should be to partner with Ts and provide suggestions to Ts on how learning can be improved.
A1: Observations are one of the fastest methods for growth for teachers. Also promotes collaboration and communication.
Bummer! Hope to see you at ! Let's try to connect!
A1: keeps admin excited about the school. So many WOW moments!
Love growth convo piece. Need more of that and to grow more in that. Kids don't have time for fluff https://t.co/smn2LfPCA9
A1: Teacher observations allow us to see the learning taking place and opens the door for growth conversations.
A1: observations are beneficial to gage strategies that are being successful to student engagement and growth
Yes! I love every opportunity to get back in the classroom.
A2: Admins can also use observations to learn and share with others the great things going on in the building!
align PD w/ indicators used in observations, giving Ts opportunities to work on areas of need, & strengthen craft
A2: admins should be looking for the relationship and connection of learning; also look for student-centered learning.
By sharing what we see as admin & asking good questions we can help with the reflective process.
A2: Any observation should be about improvement. Admin should provide honest feedback to T's with each observation.
yes! I get some of my best ideas from seeing or hearing how another teacher actually does something! (And hello!)
Stacy Tinch, 4th grade math teacher at Haleyville Elementary. Good evening, I'm a little late.
A2: admin observe to ensure measureable goals are given that equate professional growth&using Ts strengths to help w/improvement
A2 not an admin yet, but as tchr I appreciate the feedback. Hard to grow if only looking at mirror
A2 To increase purposeful planning, reflection, and connecting "ahas" to subsequent instruction
A2: The goal is learning and the assessment of learning taking place... Feedback assists Ts to reflect on instructional practice.
A2: The goal should be growth...and reflection on what went well and what can be even better
Welcome back, Stacy! Jump right in!
A2: to see the school from the eyes of Ss
We are doing peer observations at our school, modeled after the learning walks at ' school.
Q2 To help T's reflect on their practice and improve instruction.
****Q3 coming up in 1 min****
Yes. We must be purposeful with constructing learning that is connected with S needs.
great point-build capacity of own building by sharing what is happening with colleagues
A2: To provide constructive criticism and/or praises when needed. Also to help Ts reflect on their teaching practices and improve.
A2: The goal is to know what's working and where we need to focus on growth to provide the best for every S in every classroom.
A2 Admin observations: to be involved, aware, open communication w/Ts, provide needed resources & PD, and to show support of Ts
A2: to gather first hand data and information that will drive PD & teacher growth & development
Q3: What can admins learn from observing a variety of Ts as far as school culture is concerned?
A2: To encourage teachers, examine learning, & provide effective support that enhances instruction
Like the "measurable goals" connection here. Data informs our "next steps"
super late- but joining you all tonight. HS inst coach from Texas
A3: Observing a variety of Ts allows the admins to see which classroom dynamics are gaining S buy in.
A2: Reflection is essential to improvement.
Jump in! Glad you made it! Q3 just posted.
peer obs. and tuning protocols address fallacy of admin. I'd be a much better T now.
I'll admit, that would be VERY hard due to unpredictability for admin. We can still visit classes often, though!
A3: Again..variety=opportunities to share what's working!
A3: I think we can get a "big picture" of what is going on and what we as a school can improve on and what we are rocking!
A3 observing various different T's gives true incite to how the school is functioning as a whole.
A3: Admins can determine areas for teacher PD. Gives them insight on the next step in teacher learning
A3 Admin can see if interdisciplinary planning/communication is occurring, relationships between Ts, & Ts & Ss visible
A3: Strategies & Protocols and classroom environments that are promoting Ss learning and achievement. To share with the masses...
A3 observing a variety of Ts and doing frequent informal visits allows admins to have a good feel of what is REALLY happening
A3: classrooms are the melting pot of school culture. There is something beneficial in each classroom that affects school culture
I agree! An unreachable student can be successful in a different learning situation. Provide suggestions.
A3 many obs mean get a feel 4 what is happening in school-drive-bys only give snapshot of true culture https://t.co/YQAmJBwRrb
Q3: What can admins learn from observing a variety of Ts as far as school culture is concerned?
A3: The puzzle pieces fitting together...observing a variety of Ts will show where strengths are and growth areas for the whole
A3:Types of classroom communities/rules that are established and ability to see what each T is doing differently.
A3: Without a doubt, I feel that an administrator can see if the school culture is what they expect and strive for it to be.
****Q4 coming up in 1 min****
I love seeing how different teachers approach teaching the same concepts.
RT A3: Admins can determine areas for teacher PD. Gives them insight on the next step in teacher learning
A3: school culture depends on faculty morale & observations give you a feel for the bldg & what/how each person contributes
A3: It's an opportunity to see where we place value in learning and examine how we connect with kids
A3The various proactive successful strategies Ts are using that others can benefit from.Also possible classes for PL "peer visits"
A3 many observations also mean better idea of strengths & places to grow-target PD & school vision based on these "formatives"
Q4: How can teacher observations impact overall school improvement?
A4: Observations can show areas of strength and weakness. These can be the foundations to move from good to great!
A3 Through observations, Admins learn what expectations of students are embedded in the culture.
Right, & what areas need to be celebrated, while working 2 provide the diff support to those who need assistance
A3 admins can get a view of how the school's PD is being implemented. Compliance, innovative or passive culture????
A3 we do instructional rounds so all staff get to see one another & develop capacity-build on what you got already
A4 Tt can come to a shared understanding of what instruction looks like and removes the veil bc you don't know what you don't know
A4 Good morning from Riyadh! Being regularly observed creates a team dynamic and clear expectations for all teachers.
A4: Observations assist in determining if we are all on the same team. As a whole, are our expectations where they should be?
A4: It can be a driving force for PD and opportunity for reflection
YES! RT A4: It can be a driving force for PD and opportunity for reflection
A4: Provides Ts opportunities to view their colleagues in action... Causes them to reflect over what Ss centered instruction is..
A4: seeing how the instructional practices engage Ss & also to establish PD practices in house & system level ideas
A4 how can they not? Know what is going on & you can target 2 specific needs of staff & Ss-how U drive PD https://t.co/eG4mYevu5E
Q4: How can teacher observations impact overall school improvement?
A4:Teacher obs foster teacher growth,s's see that. IMO student buy in is achieved when s's know ts are committed to learning also
A4: observations can lead to growth; sometimes that can be uncomfortable; necessary for the benefit of the Ss. Growth must happen
Glad you are here! First time we have had a tweeter from Saudi Arabia! Good Morning!
A4 The school culture should be a "team" atmosphere, where observations are seen as "growth" then school improvement is priority
A4: looking for patterns in practice through observations can give us feedback for the school as a whole.
****Q5 coming up in 1 min****
A4 must include all instructional staff not just "T"s-get a feel for how they work with kids https://t.co/eG4mYevu5E
Q4: How can teacher observations impact overall school improvement?
A4: By observing what students are doing instructional needs can be determined and PD plans implemented. https://t.co/YL53T8Ncjp
Q4: How can teacher observations impact overall school improvement?
I agree! Growth can be difficult, but it is easier to have these convos if relationships are strong.
Q4: Ts observing other Ts can show how something actually works in the "real world"! Seeing that helps do it in your classroom
A4: Ts starts to see how their different chapters all fit into the same book...of helping Ss and improving the school as a whole
A4:I love peer observations. I got tons of new ideas and learned so much by observing my peers.Lifelong learner..
A4:Through focused PD with identified areas for growth, appropriately placing Ss in classes & advisory, & increase collaboration
T observations impact school improvement only if honest feedback is given in a way that promotes continuous improvement
A4Must serve a purpose connected to goals, provide opp for pre & post conversation, and connect to next steps in cont improvement
Q5: What makes observations effective for teacher growth?
This is part of my planning process!
Yep. If it happens multiple times, it's a pattern. https://t.co/WEEcgMgkZj
A4: looking for patterns in practice through observations can give us feedback for the school as a whole.
A4 from instructional coach view it creates new learning opportunities
A4: using the data to explore where we are and where we should go https://t.co/7qJPREvXKF
Q4: How can teacher observations impact overall school improvement?
And it usually gives courage to the observer to TRY something new. https://t.co/LqSvYmIh9z
Q4: Ts observing other Ts can show how something actually works in the "real world"! Seeing that helps do it in your classroom
It really is a great opportunity for learning https://t.co/VXy9TJflOY
A4:I love peer observations. I got tons of new ideas and learned so much by observing my peers.Lifelong learner..
A4 observations can be collaborative and reflective, PD is developed/requested by Ts to address individual and team needs
principal & I have running challenge to see how many classes we get in per day-can't b in office more than 20 min
If one does not identify strengths and weaknesses, improvement is not possible.
Loves the "patterns in practice" phrase here. Some to share and others to use as a catalyst for prof learning
A4: teacher observations in a school help to be your own source of pd. No excuses because it is your own home.
A5: Time to reflect and provide PD opportunities (individual or group) to grow in the area of need
A5: For T growth, the obs must be a process including honest conversation between trusting Ts and admins.
A5: T observations if done correctly with honest feedback should provide opportunities for growth & collaboration
A5: Observations are effective if true conversations and reflections follow. Ts have to know that you want them to succeed!
Agree. Which should align with set goals and specific vision to improve areas of practice
A5: A partnership approach... Growth always being the goal... Gives Admins & Ts an avenue for authentic professional convos!
A5 Keeping observations as observations and allowTs to make the inferences. Let them think critically about their practice.
A5:Reflection and feedback, especially if done by admin or instructional coach.
A5 honest, non-threatening transparent feedback
A5: How we conduct the observation and what we do in the post conference - immediate feedback and useful suggestions
Yes-T observations are as much about what Ss experience as T's instruction https://t.co/NLGhfwdOWc
A3 Through observations, Admins learn what expectations of students are embedded in the culture.
A4 ultimate formative assessment for admin. Provides opportunities to build collegiality amongst fellow tchrs.
****Q6 coming up in 1 min****
Absolutely. Tied with purposeful professional learning. https://t.co/JEXpKdnr9m
If one does not identify strengths and weaknesses, improvement is not possible.
a5 when a meaningful conversation follows the observation
Observations can't be a one and done. To truly know your Ts, admins must be present consistently.
A5: Constructive criticism is still criticism. I hate that phrase. I like having growth conversations with teachers!
Love that you used "Formative."
A5 Ts must respect & Trust admin, be able to communicate with admin and colleagues. Ts should be given support, resources to grow
A5: Reflection and next steps are key. Without reflection little growth. https://t.co/pbGGCF2MYF
Q5: What makes observations effective for teacher growth?
A5: feedback is a must from the admin. Ts also need to understand that it is necessary to have the convo.
The culture must be one in which honesty is important/appreciated &feedback is presented in a way 2 promote growth.
Q6: How can an effective observation promote teacher growth or the growth mindset?
So hard to do - so important! https://t.co/6G2zeoGK3K
A5 Keeping observations as observations and allowTs to make the inferences. Let them think critically about their practice.
A5:Observations are most effective if future instructional plans are changed for improvement. https://t.co/eiRdvSg2uX
Q5: What makes observations effective for teacher growth?
Remembering being 1st to create the electronic method for those rounds Nice to walk down memory lane https://t.co/jJ49HYNngq
A3 we do instructional rounds so all staff get to see one another & develop capacity-build on what you got already
I feel that frequent unannounced visits are more meaningful than one formal observation. Get a feel for the everyday climate
Philip Holley, AP at Vestavia High School. A5: Timely, specific feedback
BAM! need 2 provide areas for growth & back up with support-not just praise or criticize-be constructive https://t.co/3DEgSrOM9O
T observations impact school improvement only if honest feedback is given in a way that promotes continuous improvement
A6: Obs will only result in growth when trust has been established.
Learned about it from you! - trend setter! https://t.co/2cyVJ4FZE5
Remembering being 1st to create the electronic method for those rounds Nice to walk down memory lane https://t.co/jJ49HYNngq
A3 we do instructional rounds so all staff get to see one another & develop capacity-build on what you got already
A5: Powerful, meaningful conversations lead to growth.
A6: quality questioning leads to reflection which leads to focus on practice. https://t.co/ICuCWJuBJH
Q6: How can an effective observation promote teacher growth or the growth mindset?
A6: Open communication...give Ts time to reflect on their own, but then provide dialogue that leads to growth
A6: If done well... Ignites a fire for learning in the adults in the building! Wish it could be done for 100% of faculties.
A6: Ts have to accept the feedback & then become intentional about improving. Also, it's not an attack. It's info to improve Ss.
A6 Ts need buy in to the vision/goals of school, observations aligned to this create a growth mindset, everyone work toward goal
Agree, Grayson. Adjusting the instr practice to include effective strategies aligned w/S needs is the main goal
A6: The observer must have growth mindset & model it, believing there's always room for growth.
A6: When good conversation and collaboration comes after an effective observation growth is inevitable. https://t.co/zMpvk3FNai
Q6: How can an effective observation promote teacher growth or the growth mindset?
A6 When admin create a culture where teachers are supported to take risks in the classroom and failure is considered a success.
A6: conducted in a perceived safe environment w/ Ts/Admin that share a vision,effective obs will supp vision & success of Ss
Great! I'll try to make 1st period everyday. RT I feel that frequent unannounced visits are more meaningful ...
Hey, Meredith! So glad you're back tonight!
A6: I have found Praise-Question-Polish to help teachers reflect and foster growth.
A6: if you have built trusting relationships with your Ts & provide transparent feedback with data & evidence the sky is the limit
A6: when both parties truly want what's best for Ss and work together for it.Not just looking for things to check off a checklist!
Hi, Phillip! Glad you're joining us tonight!
****Q7 coming up in 1 min****
A6: I agree having a real conversation about the Ts goals and what was revealed is important https://t.co/dWWQpW3g2b
A6: Open communication...give Ts time to reflect on their own, but then provide dialogue that leads to growth
A6Begins w/ admins & Ts viewing the obs as a part of the purposeful growth process.Approach to connect obs w/ support is essential
Q7: Give an example of how an observation has motivated you or encouraged you to grow in practice.
A6 When the observer remains positive throughout. Tough criticism can be given, but it's best when constructive/positive
A5 feedback that leads to conversations-make time to meet after & discuss-use it 2 drive personal growth https://t.co/NKHvPqTnWr
Q5: What makes observations effective for teacher growth?
Agree, Ann. There are lessons learned during the process that will inform the next attempt to positively engage Ss
seems obvious but the observer needs to model that growth mindset expected...if we want Ts to grow... https://t.co/x3pJ7py8z7
Q6: How can an effective observation promote teacher growth or the growth mindset?
A7: As a teacher, when an admin gave suggestions based on learning outcomes and we set goals, I was challenged to meet them!
A6:Obs encourage a growth mindset when there is honest feedback and suggestions are provided. Growth requires both of us.
A5 create opportunity 4 discussion-helps both grow professionally https://t.co/NKHvPqTnWr
Q5: What makes observations effective for teacher growth?
A7: I ask for input after pd,make adjustments for next time bc my goal is to meet the needs of Ts which means I must improve
True. Perspective on the process will determine what is and is not seen
A7: Observations allow for an outside perspective. I loved when admins would give me new ideas or strategies to check out.
A7: When given an area for growth, give suggestions on how to grow. Some might not be able to figure it out.
A7: I responded more intensely to the "Glows" highlighted in my instruction. When "Grows" were discussed, clear goals set helped.
A7: observations has allowed me to view resources within the classroom & to complete a needs assessment for technology resources
A7: I can't remember an obs. making a diff to me as a T, but I remember sharing feedback early in career.Made me grow in practice!
A6:Effective observations will help growth and mindsets shift.
A7:I have at times picked up on ways I could improve as an admin based on the dialogue after an observation. It works both ways.
A7: leadership position = observations by many. That is motivation to grow. https://t.co/4PmMGas3I0
Q7: Give an example of how an observation has motivated you or encouraged you to grow in practice.
*****Q8 coming up in 1 minute****
A7Observations that help develop a positive culture encouraged me to continue in the manner we were. They can make or break a team
A6-timely and relevant feedback with tangible ways to improve S outcomes. Growth mindset sees opportunity, not obstacles.
A7: When I receive pos. feedback about my practice I work harder to make what I am doing even better.Just like Ss,Ts want it too .
A7: Making the change that was recomended and seeing it work...it's about how the feedback is given that determines growth or not
A7; positive feedback makes me feel appreciated and makes me want to improve!
A7 discussion after an observation, when reflective questioning is used, allow Ts to think and "grow" through the discussion
Q8: What could be done to make teacher observations more positive experiences focused on teacher growth?
A7 sought feedback from staff based on observations I gave-learned about my patterns & areas 4 growth https://t.co/Oz69SSdO4R
Q7: Give an example of how an observation has motivated you or encouraged you to grow in practice.
As admins we cannot forget to ask for growth suggestions as well- two way street. Model what you want to accomplish.
Likewise. A path to improvement, partnered with guidance during the difficult moments in the transition is invaluable
A7: I like to also have examples for improvement if and area of growth is needed.
A7: I'm encouraged to research & share practical solutions to real teacher concerns & provide tangible resources for growth
A7: always self-reflect on admin observation; use this info to improve for the benefit of the Ss.
So true. Praise makes us want to work to get more of it.
A7 Feedback and suggestions for ways to improve has the biggest impact. Especially when an actual conversation happens
A8: Build relationships first and set a clear mission and beliefs. Expectations are also important.
A8 provide more opportunities-multiple observations means better picture & better relationships built https://t.co/gcz5MPq67O
Q8: What could be done to make teacher observations more positive experiences focused on teacher growth?
A6: Growth will occur and mindset will shift if honesty is present.
Good leaders do this instinctively! You are a great leader! https://t.co/nVVtJW5WCA
A7; positive feedback makes me feel appreciated and makes me want to improve!
A7:If we listen, the things Ts say can be as helpful to us as admins as we are to them. Must listen for growth opportunities.
A7: In the SPE, I've never gotten an admin obs that challenged me; Differences have been made as my mentor teacher observed me.
A8 agree on growth plan and execute the plan. Any growth is beneficial to the students now and future. Remember it is a process
A7 witnessed several times teachers observing other educators/sharing their thoughts in nonevaluative manner =terrific growth
A7 allowing Ts to develop goals, steps to achieve them during discussion & admin giving resources/support to ensure Ts success
A8: make informal visits on a daily basis & engage in meaningful conservations. Goes back to establishing relationships
A8 Talk less and listen more
A8-trust has to be the cornerstone. Along with commitment by all parties to bottom line results of what success looks like.
A8: The message is important for Ts as well as Ss ....build the trust and the feedback will be accepted and received
A8: Focusing not only on what the Ss are doing but how the Ts facilitate the end product! https://t.co/MQjaFJWLwy
Q8: What could be done to make teacher observations more positive experiences focused on teacher growth?
A8: For more positive experiences, admins need to set the expectation for quality instruction at all times! &pony
Yes, the structured feedback piece is often overlooked. However, it has the most impact in the journey of improvement
A7: Observing teachers have made me grow the most. When I observe wonderful practices, I want to learn more about them.
starts with strong relationships provides you with ability 2 have honest conversations
Yes! RT A8: The message is important for Ts as well as Ss ....build the trust and the feedback will be accepted
Q8: Frame questions that are nonjudgmental & and inspire reflection! Set goals for growth. Ask when you can check back with Ts.
Build the Trust!! https://t.co/sSw37dMqHU
A8: The message is important for Ts as well as Ss ....build the trust and the feedback will be accepted and received
A8: Ts need to relax when obs. time roles around. Also, admins should remember when they were teachers; be encouraging & helpful.
creating and developing relationships is of most importance and might I add positive ones.
A8 Use it for individualized PD and not one size fits all. (Yes I know there are many difficulties to this, but...)
A8 if admin are visible on a more reg basis in classrooms, Ts feel they see the whole pic & have invested time, creates trust
A7 Admins who have made time to really know me and my classroom have had an impact on me because I buy into what they have to say
Carl from Emerald Australia here
A8) Ask Ts to invite you for a time they think will be special. Get to see relationship with Ss
A8: clear cut expectations need to be said on the outset and Ts need to follow these. Also, Ts need expectations w/in classroom.
A8 I don't see much conversation going on 4 admins and more than 100 tchrs makes it difficult to have meaningful observ.
Welcome! Glad to have you from Australia! Jump right in!
Q9: If you could give administrators one suggestion relating to the observation process, what would it be?
A8: Build relationships w/ Ts & have conversations about how you can work together to grow learning not abt what they're not doing
A8 strong belief this begins w/rich conversations about Danielsons rubrics/self evaluation/ and identification of specific traits
A8:I like the idea of using teams of teachers for observations. Get more buy-in and Ts are able to own the process.
A8Before obs,establish clear purpose,determine focus of obs,what will be S lrng goals- Afterwards converse about if these were met
It's a process not a crockpot. You can't set it and forget it and then expect growth.
It is hard, but we can do it! I need about 3 more hours in the day!
A8: Relationships must be established and groomed.
Great idea https://t.co/99fpolQ99K
Carl from Emerald Australia here
A8) Ask Ts to invite you for a time they think will be special. Get to see relationship with Ss
Thanks Holly
I'm Late to the party but always have something to say
A9: engage in honest transparent communication as a follow up
A9: Establish trust... Observe instructional practice early & often is critical!
A9: make it real, meaningful, and all about the children. https://t.co/GhPCIUN5H5
Q9: If you could give administrators one suggestion relating to the observation process, what would it be?
A9 get to know your Ts, what are their beliefs/passions concerning ED, how can you support them, create a culture of growth
It's about the work! Great idea https://t.co/iZxyW5W3fN
A8: Build relationships w/ Ts & have conversations about how you can work together to grow learning not abt what they're not doing
Q9 observations are about improving instruction, take the time to coach and assist teachers to learn from their lessons.
A9) Watch the Ss not the T
This is where you will see the effectiveness of the teaching
A9 Create the observation framework collaboratively
A9:Provide highly descriptive feedback of expectations which can't be determined in two classroom visits. https://t.co/SQHF0gRNl5
Q9: If you could give administrators one suggestion relating to the observation process, what would it be?
A9: Always celebrate the strengths!
A9-if you are going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk. Otherwise, don't waste your time, or theirs.
A9 B in classrooms daily & provide honest feedback 2 build capacity-also ask for same from your own peers https://t.co/8zMWBJozEY
Q9: If you could give administrators one suggestion relating to the observation process, what would it be?
A9 clear expectations, consistency and know your people
A9: we may vary on the planned lesson to meet what's needed on that day; Content is important but Ss are even more so.
Thx for the convo , gotta run early
A9: That the observation should not be your first interaction w/ Ts and Ss in that setting
Students always trump content
There is great value in the conversations... Have to fix that! https://t.co/az2T4fNami
A8 I don't see much conversation going on 4 admins and more than 100 tchrs makes it difficult to have meaningful observ.
A9: What I see when Ts think I'm not "observing" often tells the greatest stories.
A9: don't be so far removed from the classroom- be in them often and be in our shoes!
Agree. Facilitates a process that allows focus on improvement
A9: I would like to observe SPED transition teachers at other schools to see what is working. We can always do more.
A9:Make sure everyone knows the expectation and observation protocol before going into classrooms.
Lets set it up! Sounds great!
****FQ coming up in 1 minute****
Thanks for being here, Tina!
Devils adv:Somecoaches cant walk the walk anymore like they used2 but still know what good inst looks like https://t.co/1rtbphgZ8p
A9-if you are going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk. Otherwise, don't waste your time, or theirs.
Follow-through and implemenation
Definitely
The context would make no sense https://t.co/GOj9Wq4mcx
A9: That the observation should not be your first interaction w/ Ts and Ss in that setting
FQ: What will you change from tonight's discussion as a teacher or administrator?
I think visits to other schools teaches us so much!!
A9:And while we are always "observing", don't always be in "observation" mode. I love sitting with students and participating
FA: I want to have more conversations with teacher on how they want to grow and how I can best support them!
Hopefully how you see other teachers and what you value when reflecting on their practice
FA: I want to ask my Ts how can I improve the process. How can I be a better support for you?
This is why I continue to teach online courses. I'm still in the trenches!
When you do this you'll find Ss will open up and show you how things really are (processes, expectations etc)
AQ: Engage Ts in conversations NOT related to school & be present... Let them know they are valued as a person & professional.
Oops-I looked up and realized the chat was over. I think I need to set an alarm in the future. Hi to all my friends.
FQ: to engage in more meaningful conversations after informal visits to classrooms
FQ: Always make it real, meaningful, and about the students!
FA: Keeping the growth mindset in mind with observations and feedback...and being thankful for admin that is supportive already
FQ empower Ts to be more proactive w/peer observations, opening communication, collaboration, growth in their PLC= growth mindset
FA:Make a greater effort to assist Ts in their reflection. Their ideas for improvement are always easiest to implement.
FA: I'd like to engage in more honest conversation abt Ts perception of the process
FA: to engage in more meaningful conversations after informal visits to classrooms
FA: to engage in more meaningful conversations after informal visits to classrooms
FA: Cultivate pos. relat.within my school and continually learn to help Ts grow providing for needs of Ss. https://t.co/SHqxfq2DEj
FQ: What will you change from tonight's discussion as a teacher or administrator?
Practice wisdom and foster stonger healthier relationships
FA - To do more listening than talking.
FA better, more specific conversation about facts and not feelings. Relationships grow when you care enough to help ppl grow
Thank you all for joining our chat tonight from around the world! We love to learn from you! Keep growing!
FQ: keep the lines of communication open with the admin; be able discuss the issues that really matter.
FA We formatively assess students , so y not do this 4 T's? Observations need to give feedback for ways to impact S's achievement
goal of observing Ts: Helping the Ts to grow as educators and learners. A2
FA Encourage other tchrs to observe colleagues We have Terminal Tours (peer obsv time) I go every time Need to bring a fellow Jet
Thank you for an awesome chat tonight! https://t.co/jNpZ2m272l
Thank you all for joining our chat tonight from around the world! We love to learn from you! Keep growing!
Great tonight ;-) Always fun learning and growing with the PLN
FA: As an admin, it reaffirms my belief in the value of relationships.
FA:Keep the growth mindset with observations and feedback.
Thank you - get chat...always a joy
FA: As a teacher, they need to be ready for criticism, but in a positive working environment built on trust
Thank you all for a great chat! Special thanks to HES Ts and this team!
Awesome job boss ladies https://t.co/h1o4pe4t2P
Thank you all for joining our chat tonight from around the world! We love to learn from you! Keep growing!
A9 so easy and so simple – every classroom - every day