| Classroom Observations |
| Classroom Observations |
Description: | Nicola remarks on the positive experience the observation schedule and how it has strengthened her teaching |
Transcript: | |
Key Words: | West Dunbartonshire, probation, induction, mentoring, CPD, primary, Teaching & Learning, classroom observation |
Source: | Nicola Sharkey |
EA/Area: | West Dunbartonshire |
Priority: | 2. Framework for Learning |
Date added: | 15/05/2004 |
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File name: | NiSh_A002ClassObservations.mov |
| File size: | 612 KB | |
| Duration: | 1:57 | |
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Transcript for: Classroom Observations
At the beginning of the year, my very first one in particular, I used to feel they were like 'crits', and the same level of preparation went in. As much as we tried to prepare for every lesson, it was always a bit different knowing that someone was coming in. You had to prepare for every eventuality, but as time's gone on I don't feel anxious about it - or as anxious now - when I know my mentor's coming in to observe me. We've always had an agreement before the observed lesson as to what my mentor will be looking for, whether it's the introduction to a lesson; or rounding off a lesson; or working with differentiated groups, so I've always been very focussed on what she's going to be looking for. We've more or less stuck to the guidelines from the 'Standard For Full registration'. But because this is an open-plan school, there's been various opportunities for my mentor, when she's either passing or coming into the class, where she's maybe stayed a while longer and just listened in to the content of the lesson, and we've discussed this at a later stage. Especially at the start where I was, I still feel inexperienced, but at the start when I was more inexperienced, I found the advice really useful and it was good to get the advice of a more experienced teacher. My Head Teacher has also observed on a formal basis. I've also shared the class at times with my class-share teacher, where we've both been in the room. Although her allocated time is the point three when I'm out of the class, there have been occasions where we've been in together, we've taught together or we've taught separately and we've discussed it afterwards. Also, I've been really luck as well in that I've had the experience of shadowing other members of staff throughout the school. I've visited from Primary 1 to Primary 7; I've observed other teachers teaching; I've been involved in group activities, so I've had lots of experience of working with others.
