Using teacher peer observation sessions as a tool for building collegiality and improving teaching

Term

2007

Capstone

Thesis

Degree Name

MAEd

Abstract

Teacher isolation can lead to many problems in schools such as, ineffective teaching practices, teacher attrition, and minimizing school-wide improvement initiatives. A possible way to limit the epidemic is for teachers to work together in a peer observation model. In doing so, teachers may build collegial relationships and learn effective teaching practices from each other. This capstone documents a case study conducted at a suburban middle school in which teachers volunteered to observe one another teach. The study tries to determine How can teacher peer observation sessions enhance school climate and improve teaching practices? Using questionnaires and participant interviews, data was collected that suggests observations did diminish isolation and created a more professional climate. The participants also shared ways in which the experience had an effect on their own teaching practices.

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