Using Classroom Observations for Support as a New Teacher

Stepping into the classroom for the first time as a new teacher can feel like navigating uncharted territory. The mix of excitement and nerves is palpable, and the fear of making mistakes looms large. Amid the whirlwind of lesson planning and classroom management, one often-overlooked opportunity for growth is classroom observations. Approach observations with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Embrace vulnerability as a sign of strength, and use feedback as a springboard for growth. 

The Power of Observation

Allowing colleagues to observe your teaching, whether for an entire class period or just a short segment, can be transformative. It’s natural to focus on the negatives when things don’t go as planned. We tend to dwell on what went wrong, labeling the entire lesson as a disaster. However, inviting someone to observe can provide a fresh perspective. It allows us to see the positives that occurred, no matter how small, and offers insight into why things may have veered off course. 

As a practicum adviser on a faculty of education, I find that part of my role is to observe teacher candidates teaching and then offer my feedback. Through this process, I’ve come to realize the powerful impact observation can have on growth, confidence, and self-efficacy. Observation is a cornerstone of the educational journey.

When we observe, we immerse ourselves in the nuances of teaching and learning, capturing moments that might otherwise be overlooked. These moments often hold the key to understanding and improving our teaching practices. For teacher candidates, being observed provides an opportunity to receive constructive feedback that is crucial for their professional development.

The act of observing is a dynamic engagement that allows both the observer and the observed to reflect and grow. For teacher candidates, knowing that someone is attentively watching and valuing their efforts can significantly boost their confidence. It reassures them that their work is important and worthy of attention, which in turn enhances their self-efficacy. While my role focuses on teacher candidates, the insights gained from these experiences are equally valuable for new teachers.

One of the greatest benefits of classroom observations is the opportunity to gain constructive feedback. Observers can offer insights into teaching practices and classroom dynamics that we may not have considered. They can identify strengths we didn’t realize we had and highlight areas for improvement. Rather than viewing feedback as criticism, see it as a gift—a chance to learn and grow as an educator.

When I was a new teacher, whenever I felt things were going badly, I’d close my classroom door so my colleagues wouldn’t know how bad things were. I worried they would judge me and conclude I was a bad teacher. I didn’t realize until much later in my career that not allowing others to offer support and solutions meant that I didn’t learn diverse strategies to resolve the problems I was encountering.

Making the Most of Observations

It’s tempting for new teachers to invite a colleague to observe a lesson plan or class when they feel confident. However, it’s more beneficial to invite observations for specific challenges, such as classroom management issues or difficulties with facilitating whole class discussions. Ask a seasoned educator in your department to observe you. They don’t have to stay for the entire class period—observing a short segment of a class can be incredibly valuable.

Communicate the feedback you’re hoping to receive. When they arrive for the observation, set up a place for them to sit, and teach your class as you normally would. After the observation, schedule a time to discuss their feedback so that they can share areas of strength and growth.

When they identify areas for growth, ask for specific suggestions or strategies you could try. Implement their suggestions and update them on your progress. This ongoing dialogue will allow them to see that their time and insight are valued. When you feel you’ve improved, invite them back to observe again and witness your growth.

New teachers should also take the opportunity to observe other teachers in action. Seeing how experienced teachers manage the complexities of a classroom can be extremely helpful. This can provide practical insights and strategies that can be adapted to one’s own teaching practice.

Building a Supportive Professional Learning Community

Even brief classroom observations can yield valuable feedback. Set specific goals, such as improving classroom management techniques or refining instructional strategies. Seek feedback on targeted areas, and be open to suggestions for improvement.

Once I became comfortable with being observed, I sought specific strategies from my colleagues. In one of my classes, discussions were dominated by three students—discouraging others from participating. I asked a colleague to observe the last 15 minutes of my class to see how I facilitated discussions. They offered me strategies for making discussions more inclusive for all students.

New teachers often worry about being a burden to their peers. A good frequency for observations is about once a month. This frequency allows you enough time to implement feedback and make improvements on your own before the next observation. It also ensures that you are regularly reflecting on and refining your teaching practices without overwhelming yourself or your colleagues.

As an experienced teacher and department head, I’ve always encouraged new teachers to observe my classes, and I actively seek opportunities to observe theirs. This practice has fostered a culture where teachers in my department frequently drop by each other’s classrooms to see what’s happening.

This open-door policy helps build a supportive community where sharing ideas and strategies becomes second nature and enhances the teaching and learning experience within our department. This environment of mutual respect and ongoing professional development shows our students that education is a lifelong journey and that we are committed to working together to improve.

As you embark on your teaching journey, remember that you’re not alone. Lean on your colleagues for guidance and encouragement. Share your successes and struggles and celebrate each other’s growth. Your colleagues are standing by you—there to support you every step of the way as you navigate your path. Together, you’ll grow and thrive as educators, making a positive impact on the lives of your students.

Approach observations with confidence and an open mind, knowing that each one brings you closer to becoming the best educator you can be.