What is feedback?
To be effective, feedback must be constructive. The aim is for colleagues to help each other to reflect on and develop their expertise.

Dos and Don'ts of giving and receiving feedback

Giving feedback

• Give feedback as soon as possible after the lesson - Don't delay: feedback works best when it is ‘fresh'
• Describe what you observed using your notes - Don't be biased
• Focus on tasks, activities, techniques, approach etc - Don't focus on personality
• Ask teacher to comment and ask questions - Don't impose your own ideas and opinions
• Be constructive - Don't undermine teacher's confidence
• Be informative - Don't be opinionated
• Give praise - Don't make negative criticisms
• Be balanced - Don't only focus on problems
• Give advice and suggestions if teacher asks for these - Don't give advice based on what you would have done

Receiving feedback

• Be open - Don't be defensive
• Accept praise - Don't be too modest
• Listen - Don't impose your views
• Reflect - Don't dismiss things you may disagree with
• Explore - Don't be passive, use the opportunity to find out how you can change and develop.
• Commit - Don't ignore the feedback: do something with it

Finally, reflect together on the peer observation process:

• What are the benefits to you both?
• What have you learnt?
• How will you use what you have learnt to help you develop?
• Will you do it again?
• Will you do it differently next time?
• Will you recommend it to your colleagues?

Peer observation form
Download a peer observation form to use below.

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