Peer Observation Forms and Examples

Observation template forms

The University Teaching Academy has designed a range of observation forms to facilitate taking notes and preparing for conversation about the observed session. The choice of forms, or whether to use another way of recording notes, should be agreed in programme teams to suit the objectives of the programme action plan. It should be borne in mind that some participants may wish to use feedback, or examples of their own observation notes, in claims for professional recognition, and this may influence the choice of form.

Example Observations

An example peer observation by Rachel Forsyth
This film features a different observation, of Dr Paul Smith, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry & Environmental Science delivering a lecture. It also shows the pre-observation, discussion, part of the taught session, followed by verbal feedback.

Non-teaching Activities

Note: for the purposes of the guidance, any of these will be described as a ‘session’ regardless of the actual nature of the activity. Sessions could include but are not limited to:

  • Development  of personal tutoring systems and the activity of personal tutoring.
  • Field trip or other external event.            
  • Laboratory or practical class.      
  • Lecture, seminar or tutorial.       
  • Online course delivery.  
  • Programme review and approval activity.
  • Review of learning resources.     
  • Unit or programme assessment and feedback strategies.
  • Unit or programme documentation.       
  • Webinar.

Contact us

Orlagh McCabe (PFHEA)

Head of the University Teaching Academy

Orlagh McCabe

Peer observation contact

If you have any questions about peer observation, please contact Orlagh McCabe. Click on the profile card for more details.