Project Title:
Peer Observation and Self Assessment as Teacher Development Tools
Project Director and Other Associated Faculty and Staff:
Randall McClure, Asst. Prof. of English, Minnesota State University Mankato, Contact: randall.mcclure@mnsu.edu, Tel. (507)389-5512,
Kris Bigalk, English Faculty, Normandale Community College, Contact: Kris.bigalk@normandale.edu, Tel.: (952)487-8384
Project Design:
The project applied peer observation/feedback instrument to assess English composition instruction. The project called for 6 participating teachers visiting class meetings of two other participants on 3 occasions during Fall 2004.
Project Evaluation and Outcomes:
To evaluate achievement of the outcomes, several instruments were used including a standardized observation instrument that analyzed interaction, online discussions, and self-assessment reports. The findings were: (1) faculty agreed to participate observation exercise where outsiders came to each class and provided feedback on the nature of classroom interaction and faculty then practiced self-assessment of these comments. (2) dialogued was fostered between teachers through regular face-to-face meetings to discuss what was learned, (3) faculty examined and modified teaching practices on on-going basis, (4) participants developed a plan for continuing improvement through use of peer assessment. Through an exit meeting with all participants, they identified ways they could continue this assessment in other courses. (5) Students conducted self-assessment and peer-assessment of their writing after observing the teaching assessment activities.
Lessons Learned, Dissemination and Sustainability
The project focused on the development of teachers as local and collaborative researchers. By participating in the self-assessment and peer assessment processes, the teachers of English composition enhanced their teaching skills and discovered that students learning outcomes were also enhanced. To enter this project into a larger discussion, the project director has submitted a proposal for a conference presentation at the 2006 national conference on composition In addition, the project director made presentations at CTL’s 2004 and 2005 Realizing Student Potential conferences.
