Resources

The term peer observation (or review) of teaching is used to describe a process in which a colleague or other nominated individual is invited to observe and give feedback on teaching. It is often used in addition to student satisfaction surveys to gather information about one’s teaching.

The University of Tasmania guide to peer review of teaching identifies five main reasons for its use:

• It assists staff members to maintain a teaching record or portfolio
• It helps to ensure teaching quality
• The process is collegial and supportive, and should lead to improved practice
• It facilitates dissemination and sharing of expertise in teaching and learning
• It increases opportunities for discussion about teaching.

In the UK, peer observation is usually used for formative feedback (rather than tenure) purposes and in this manner it can provide useful information for continual professional development. The majority of institutions have their own peer review systems and staff are required to participate in these. It is important that both the reviewer and the person observed prepare for the review and that feedback is given in a positive manner. The Oxford Centre for Staff and Learning Development at Oxford Brookes University provides a brief introduction to peer observation in their ‘First Words’ section for staff new to teaching. The concluding comment provides sage advice to those engaged in peer observation:

‘The person who asks for and receives the feedback must stay in charge of the feedback -- the process is being undertaken for them, for their benefit. And the intent and the process must always be constructive. Observe these two rules, and peer feedback will be very valuable, and will help you to improve your teaching faster than you could without it.’ (University of Tasmania Website)

The sites given below provide a good range of information, although extensive resources on peer observation are available via institutional websites using a simple Internet search.

The Professional Development for Academics Involved in Teaching (ProDAIT) project website provides a useful resource to support continuing professional development for academic and academic-related staff in higher education. Their website includes a good overview of ‘peer observation of teaching’ and another section provides guidance on ‘how to do peer observation of teaching.’

The Oxford Centre for Staff and Learning Development at Oxford Brookes University ‘First Words’ on peer observation.

The Teaching and Development Institute at the University of Queensland provides useful selected links to further information.

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