Feedback on Teaching From Administrator Observations of Teaching

• In Event: 66.080 - Roundtable Session 26
  In Roundtable Session: 66.080-4 - Exploring the Relationships Between School Leaders, Teachers, and Evaluation Systems

Abstract

Feedback on teaching is scarce in our schools, yet extremely desired by teachers. This case study set out to understand the nature of qualitative feedback on teaching where administrators consistently observe teaching and provide feedback. One administrator’s written feedback comments to four teachers were analyzed using Feedback Intervention Theory framework for FI Cues. Teacher interviews and “think-aloud” comments around the written feedback were analyzed inductively. The nature of feedback comments according to FIT, and the teachers’ perceptions of feedback comments are presented. Findings suggest that certain types of feedback prompt teachers to seek changes in their practice. Results have implications for research on teacher observations and performance feedback, and leadership training and professional development in observing teaching and providing feedback.

Author

• Edit Khachatryan, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching