Observing Other Teachers

This semester I’m teaching a course on the Nature of Emotional/Behavioral Disabilities. One of the requirements is to complete a field experience component. I feel this is a very important component because it gives insight into how other teachers are dealing with certain situations. I know my students will benefit from this opportunity but then I started thinking about how all teachers should be taking this opportunity at least once a year to observe and reflect on this. I thought I would share my questions that may help with this reflection.

Setting:
Look at how the room is set up, including seating, bulletin boards, etc. Describe the setting to give me a clear picture of your setting. What other things do you notice in the room that would tell you certain reasons why something is set the way it is? Does the set up of things like classroom supplies, or other things in the room, lend itself to efficiency? If it were your classroom, what would you change and why?

Behavior:
How to respond to student behavior is one of the greatest concerns of beginning teachers. This activity will help you to gain practical knowledge about how to respond to various types of behavior. Whenever you observe an instance of student behavior (positive or negative), describe the incident, describe the type of behavior, and the teacher’s response. Some examples of teacher responses are: moved closer to problem student, made and held eye contact with problem student, rested hand on student, integrated off-task remark into teaching activities, told the student to stop, restated the rule or procedure for the student, had the student identify the rule or procedure, imposed a consequence or reward, change activity, or other. Think about the teacher’s most common responses to instances of behavior. Were these successful? Why or why not? Describe your thoughts concerning these observations. Discuss the classroom or school-wide system of behavior management.

Teaching Strategies:
Describe and discuss at least three different strategies you’ve seen used by the host teacher. In these observations, also describe what you saw in terms of student response.

Accommodations and Modifications:
Accommodations and modifications are often used with students who have learning needs. Describe and discuss at least three different accommodations or modifications you’ve seen employed. Also, describe what you saw in terms of student use and success.

What other topics would you include in this reflection? Please share.

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