1. Teacher Observations Summative or Formative? ( Glickman et. al.)

2. The Function of Observations  SUMMATIVE  Purely administrative. principals and assistant principals go through the “seasonal” approach of observation  Usually December and May…  FORMATIVE  Supervisory in nature  Looking at how to improve instruction and learning…

3. The Purpose of an Observation  SUMMATIVE  Accountability process  Judgments issued by observer  Performance issues which lead to employment decisions…  FORMATIVE  Providing assistance  Adding to professional development  Improving teaching  Enhancing student learning…

4. The Scope of Observation  SUMMATIVE  Instruction  Compliance with regulations  Personal qualities  Meeting standards…  FORMATIVE  Instruction  Enhancing student learning…

5. The Focus of an Observation  SUMMATIVE  Completion of the form  Steps leading to formal evaluation…  FORMATIVE  Collection of data relevant to instruction and learning  Interpretation and sharing of data  Conversations about teaching and learning…

6. The Duration of an Observation  SUMMATIVE  Usually one class period  Number is determined primarily by tenure status; ranges from 2 to 4 obsrvations per year  Aimed at evaluation…  FORMATIVE  Multiple times  5 minutes and up  Aimed at providing feedback and continuous improvement…

7. The Concerns for an Observation  SUMMATIVE  Standardization of the teaching process  Validation that teacher is following district guidelines…  FORMATIVE  Building trust and rapport with teacher  Encouraging conversations about teaching and learning…

8. The Collegiality of an Observation  SUMMATIVE  Looking to make sure that “due process” takes place  The number and length of observations meet the requirements…  FORMATIVE  Observer seeks to understand the context  Observer seeks to understand teacher concerns and needs…

9. Feedback provided by…  SUMMATIVE  The administrator for evaluative purposes…  FORMATIVE  The administrator, supervisor, department or team leader, peer, students, self…  For the improvement of instruction