Class observations are a handy tool for receiving feedback. Even though receiving feedback can be emotionally challenging, it is one of the most effective ways to develop professionally. An outside opinion can help you discover new ways of working with the class. It may be helpful if you invite your colleagues to your class and ask them to provide feedback on your teaching. In turn, they might also invite you to observe their classes where you can find great inspiration for your work.

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After the class, it is a good idea to discuss what happened and provide feedback. You should agree upon this topic before you observe a class – are the teachers interested in your feedback? If you decide that another teacher will observe your class, you should explain the “assignment” to them – tell them what you would like them to focus on and what information you need to get. Below you can see some questions s/he can focus on.

• What was good about the class? What did you like the most? What will you take with you to your classes?
• When did pupils change their behaviour? What was the cause of that?
• What parts of the class were problematic? Why was it so?
• When did you feel a bit lost during the class? How did it happen?
• If there is a TA in the class: What did you like about cooperating with the TA? Did you notice any problematic situations?
• Would you do anything differently?