Aspiring teachers first learn the methods of teaching in a university-style class and then practice those new skills as part of their student-teaching experience. The physical distance between the college campus and the placement or residency-model classroom can create a barrier for feedback. At the University of Michigan School of Education, they integrate the use of…
As educators, we often think of video as a tool to conduct observations and coaching sessions with teachers inside their classrooms. At Western Colorado University, they have implemented video as a way for teachers to collaborate and observe each other. The end-result is that these teachers in training are developing a stronger professional vision about…
Start off the new year with these recommended reads for teachers and instructional coaches. Teachers seeking areas of improvement should create a routine around self-reflection Teachers who take time daily to reflect on what is working in class and what is not can better assess areas for improvement and make the necessary adjustments. Take time…
Providing guidance and tools to help teachers reach their own professional goals can help develop effective instructional coaching relationships by improving engagement and dedication to teacher learning. Transitioning from a coaching role to a thought partner role allows coaches to work alongside teachers to support them through learning. Coaches’ flexibility in their roles can help…
Principal walkthroughs are a strategy often used by school leaders and team leaders to sample instruction across multiple classroom environments. During Covid-19, it might not be possible to go in person. But even before Covid-19 upended our PD routines, organizing a walkthrough required the observer to block out an amount of time to see all…