Lehrerbeobachtung

Lehrerbeobachtung, or teacher observation, is a systematic process used in educational settings to gather information about teaching practices. It typically involves a trained observer, often a colleague, administrator, or educational consultant, watching a teacher in action during a lesson or class period. The purpose of these observations can vary widely, ranging from formative feedback for professional development to summative evaluations for performance reviews.

The process usually begins with a pre-conference where the observer and teacher discuss the lesson objectives, specific areas of focus for the observation, and any particular student needs. During the observation itself, the observer takes detailed notes on various aspects of the teaching, which might include classroom management, instructional strategies, student engagement, questioning techniques, and the use of resources. The observer aims to be objective, focusing on observable behaviors rather than making subjective judgments.

Following the observation, a post-conference is held. In this meeting, the observer and teacher collaboratively review the notes and discuss the observed teaching practices. The goal is to identify strengths, areas for potential improvement, and to develop actionable strategies for future instruction. This feedback loop is crucial for teacher growth and ultimately aims to enhance the learning experience for students. Lehrerbeobachtung is a common component of teacher training programs and ongoing professional development initiatives in many countries.