SOLS Peer Observation
TLC Guide
Peer observation provides an opportunity for SOLS faculty to receive feedback on their teaching from a faculty colleague while supporting a consistent approach to teaching evaluation across the School of Life Sciences. TLC supports the process by providing observation tools and resources, coordinating observation logistics, and preparing faculty to serve as Certified Peer Observers.
Table of Contents
About Peer Observation in SOLS
Peer observations provide a structured opportunity to document and reflect on teaching practices within the context of an instructor’s course. Observations may take place in immersion or online courses and use common SOLS tools and rubrics to support consistency across different courses, modalities, and teaching contexts.
TLC supports the logistics and resources associated with the observation process. Observation results are shared directly with the instructor and appropriate SOLS personnel according to the established Peer Observation process.
Types of Peer Observation
SOLS faculty may participate in peer observation for different purposes:
- Assigned Peer Observations are completed as a part of the SOLS faculty review process.
- Formative Peer Observations may be requested by instructors who would like feedback on their teaching outside of a required observation cycle, including but not limited to TLC requested observations or Instructional Coaching.
The Peer Observation Process
TLC helps coordinate the Peer Observation process and provides instructors and observers with the materials they need at each stage. While individual circumstances may vary, observations generally follow the process below.
Observer Assignment.
An instructor is paired with a faculty peer observer. Whenever possible, observations are conducted by faculty who have completed SOLS Certified Peer Observer Training.
Observation Intake.
Before the observation, the instructor completes the SOLS Observation Intake Form to provide context about the course, lesson or module, learning objectives, and anything they would like the observer to know.
For immersion courses, the instructor and observer coordinate a date and time for the classroom observation. For online courses, the instructor identifies an observation window and the course content or module that should be reviewed.
Observation.
The observer reviews the instructor’s pre-observation information and observes the identified class session, module, or course content.
Observers use the SOLS observation tools and rubrics to collect evidence related to the teaching and learning taking place. Observations focus on what can be observed within the selected lesson or module while considering factors such as course modality, class size, instructional goals, and teaching context.
Observation Summary.
Following the observation, the observer completes the Observation Summary Report. The report documents evidence from the observation, highlights, strengths, and provides constructive feedback for the instructor.
The observer shares the completed report with the instructor for review and sign-off.
Instructor Sign-Off.
The instructor reviews the Observation Summary Report and completes the Instructor Sign-Off and Comments section. This provides an opportunity to acknowledge the observation and add any additional context or comments.
Once complete, the signed report is submitted by the instructor according to the SOLS Peer Observation process.
Become a Certified Peer Observer!
SOLS Certified Peer Observer Training prepares faculty to conduct consistent, constructive, and meaningful peer observations of teaching. Certified observers learn how to use the SOLS observation tools and rubrics, identify observable evidence, and provide feedback that is grounded in a shared framework.
Faculty who successfully complete all components of the training are recognized as SOLS Certified Peer Observers and become part of the pool of faculty available to support peer observations across SOLS.
What Does Training Include?
Certified Peer Observer Training combines independent learning, collaborative practice, and an opportunity to apply what you have learned.
Step 1: Asynchronous Training
Participants begin with a self-paced Canvas module introducing the SOLS Peer Observation process, observer responsibilities, observation tools, and rubrics. The asynchronous training typically takes approximately 45-60 minutes to complete.
Step 2: Interactive Workshop
After completing the asynchronous module, participants attend an interactive workshop facilitated by the TLC. Participants practice applying the observation criteria, discuss teaching scenarios, calibrate scoring with colleagues, and work towards greater consistency in identifying and documenting evidence.
Step 3: Independent Practice
Participants complete an independent observation practice experience to apply the skills introduced during the training. After successfully completing all three components, participants become SOLS Certified Peer Observers.
What Will I Learn?
Certified Peer Observer Training is designed to build both familiarity with the SOLS process and confidence in conducting observations. Participants practice how to:
- Identify observable evidence of teaching practices
- Consider course modality, class size, and instructional context
- Document strengths and opportunities for development
- Provide constructive, evidence-based feedback
Sign Up for Certified Peer Observer Training
TLC offers Certified Peer Observer Training in cohorts throughout the academic year. Faculty interested in becoming certified can complete the Certified Peer Observation Training Sign-Up Form to join the next available cohort.