CTL Staff Observations

CTL staff use a collaborative approach to any consultation and observations. The process typically begins with a preliminary discussion about the kind of feedback desired, the purpose of the classroom observation, the context of the course, the students in the course, and any other logistical issues which may need to be taken into consideration.

The CTL also has video equipment that faculty can use to record their class for their own review. CTL staff can assist in the recording process, if desired.

Please email us at ctl@claremont.edu to set up a meeting!

Teaching Observation Forms

Teaching is a complicated activity in which there are many things happening in the classroom at once. These simple forms can help you identify what type of observation might be most useful to you.  Or, we can discuss other options based on your specific pedagogical considerations at our pre-observation meeting.

  • Double-Entry Narrative Form
    This form will help the observer separate observations from reflections and interpretations about those observations. It is a general purpose form that is used in many settings.
  • Time-Use Observation Form
    Use this form if you would like to get feedback on how you manage your time in class.
  • Student Engagement Observation Form
    Use this form if you would like to get feedback on how students are engaged in your class.
  • Group Dynamics Observation Form
    Use this form if you spend a significant amount of time having students working in small groups and you want to get feedback on how they are interacting with each other and how you interact with them in groups.
  • Questions Observation Form
    Use this form to get feedback on the quality of the questions that you are in class and how students respond to them.
  • Observation Form for Foreign Language Classes
    This form, developed by Spanish faculty at Pitzer College, is specifically designed for foreign language classes.

Important Note about Confidentiality

Evaluation of faculty for the purpose for reappointment or promotion is very different from evaluation of teaching and learning for the purpose of improvement. Therefore, while faculty may share information about their interactions with the CTL with others, CTL staff will keep all conversations with faculty about their teaching and learning in strict confidence. CTL staff will politely decline writing a letter on behalf of a faculty member’s employment, reappointment, or promotion, even if asked to by that person.