Element D - Observation, feedback and discussion

Element D of the professional growth cycle asks that: 

Every teacher will be given the opportunity to discuss and receive feedback on their practice including observation, particularly for teachers holding Tōmua practising certificates (provisionally certificated teachers). 

Observations can happen in a range of ways; the simple fact is that the minute a teacher walks in front of learners, they are being observed and are likely to be given feedback. Observations can be formal or informal, planned or unplanned, last the length of a lesson or be a walk through. What is important is that the observation includes some feedback and reflection that leads to professional growth. 

Feedback might come from an observation. It might come from learners, caregivers or whānau, other teachers, leaders, or Principals; there are so many forms in which it is delivered. It might come from a situation where it was asked for and planned. It might be informal or be given without being requested. What’s important about feedback is that it needs to be framed in a way that the teacher can reflect on it and turn that which is useful into an action that will lead to professional growth. 

We asked our leaders to talk about how observations and feedback work in their setting. Please check back in here in a couple of weeks to read what they told us.