By Emad Mansour
CITL鈥檚 Peer Observation Program is a non-evaluative, team-based opportunity for faculty
to observe one another and share their approaches to teaching and learning. During
this spring semester, 34 faculty members from both Tampa and St. Pete campuses participated
and completed the program requirements.
The closing event of the Peer Observation Program at USF (held virtually on April
10 and 12) marks a significant milestone in the journey of faculty members. This event
is a celebration of the knowledge gained, the teaching practices observed, and the
bonds formed among the faculty members. It鈥檚 an opportunity for participants to share
their reflections on the program, discussing the strategies they observed and how
these observations have influenced their teaching approach.
The event is a testament to the program鈥檚 success in promoting evidence-based practices, recognizing teaching effectiveness, raising collegiality, and fostering a sense of belonging. Participants, who have been observing each other鈥檚 classes in small teams during the semester, come together to share their insights. They discuss their experiences in a judgment-free environment, highlighting the program鈥檚 impact on their professional development.
Because participants deliver written reflections on what they鈥檝e learned, their reflections,
a crucial part of the program, showcase the participants鈥� self-discovery journey and
their plans for implementing changes in their teaching methods. The event, therefore,
not only marks the end of the program but also the beginning of a new chapter in their
teaching careers, enriched by the experiences and insights gained through the program.
Here's a glimpse into their reflections:
Dr. Lori Hall, Assistant Professor of Instruction, Department of Criminology: 鈥�Overall, this experience has been enlightening. It has greatly improved my ability
to identify my areas of growth and areas of strength. Additionally, it has challenged
me to develop an action plan to remedy the areas on my courses that need improvement
to create better learning experiences for students and a better teaching approach.
I am very pleased with my experiences in the peer observation program and look forward
to implementing the plan to make improvements.鈥�
Dr. Kelly Page Werder, Associate Professor, Zimmerman School of Advertising and Mass Communications: 鈥淭he peer observation process helped me see ways that I can become a stronger teacher
by making adjustments that aim to foster greater student engagement. It also helped
me develop relationships with colleagues across campus that have the possibility to
continue and develop in many rewarding ways.鈥�
Dr. Matthew Son, Assistant Professor, Kate Tiedemann School of Business and Finance: 鈥淭he experience was not only enlightening but also transformative, providing me with
fresh perspectives on enhancing student engagement and participation in my own classes.鈥�
Dr. Don Saunders, Visiting Assistant Instructor, Department of Religious Studies: 鈥淚 highly recommend all faculty members consider enrolling in this program. Participation fosters faculty both cooperative and diverse pedagogy, as well as a great opportunity to interact with faculty and students and gain insightful, enduring experiences.鈥�