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In this episode, Jen Schwanke shares insights from a new Quick Reference Guide she authored for ASCD on Teacher Observation and Feedback. You can find the resource here.
As the author of this new guide, Jen explains why she chose to focus on growth, positivity and relationship building as motivations for better observation feedback. As she says, “Our goal should be helping teachers see where they want to be in student learning, outcomes, care, feedback and parent communication.” She also adds, “You are never not giving feedback!”
The ASCD website summarizes the new guide as follows:
“Observation and feedback made easy for school principals. One of the most important responsibilities of a school leader is to observe and evaluate teachers. In this quick reference guide for school leaders, leadership expert and former principal Jen Schwanke provides some tips and strategies to ensure your process for observation and feedback is collaborative, is supportive, and promotes professional growth.”
“Learn how to make feedback a positive experience for everyone involved by focusing on your support role. Whether you’re reviewing content knowledge, team meetings, or more, Schwanke gives specific examples to look for and questions to ask so that you can recognize teachers’ strengths as well as encourage improvement when intervention is necessary.”
“With strategies to get started on planning for the year and stay efficient in the wake of busy schedules, blueprints for troubleshooting when issues arise, and a checklist of observations to always keep in mind, Teacher Observation and Feedback is a guide you’ll reference again and again. Learn how to be the best support for your teachers and help them become masters of their craft.”
Jen explains two areas from the rubric in detail:
- Thorough versus General Review
- Forgiving versus Punitive
As Jen reminds us, in interactions with teachers, staff and students, we should be asking ourselves, “What compliment do I owe this person?”
Listen-in to the entire podcast episode for even more takeaways!
Also, in our conversation, I reference a recent TED Radio Hour talk, Your future self might not want the life you’re planning for them, you can it find here.
