A New Online Tool for Maximizing Data Collection During Teacher Observations
Abstract: Preparing future or practicing teachers to teach effectively and engaging learners at high levels involves complex tasks that sequence knowledge and awareness, practice, observation, followed by analysis and reflection. While most teacher observations are qualitative in nature, there are significant quantitative factors that can serve as powerful indicators of a teacher’s baseline data and the growth of teaching skills. The focus of this session is the utilization of a new web-based app teacher observation tool, utilized during a classroom observation or from captured video or audio, that facilitates extensive data collection and provides instant and detailed analysis, allows for rich feedback, and sets the groundwork for meaningful, evidence-based coaching and reflection. Data provided includes teacher-student interaction tendencies and patterns, as well as heat maps of seating charts, graphs, and timelines displaying general to individual and group classroom management issues, teacher’s reactions to such, and student engagement data at the individual and group level. The author suggests that using more evidence-based feedback is necessary in order to foster optimal growth in teaching skills. The results of this work and suggestions for using this tool for preservice programs or schools will be shared.