LILi Open Instruction Network (LION)

Interested in Observing? 

Great! Use this open map to share and find in-person library instruction sessions for observation.

Click the enlarge icon  on the top right of the map to access all features.

Helpful Tips for Observers

1. Please find a location(s) and e-mail the presenter for their instruction schedule. 
2. These observation opportunities are intended to be one-time events. They are not intended to imply an ongoing mentoring relationship. For mentorship opportunities, please consult these CARL Mentoring Programs resources.
3. If you will be visiting a K-12 school, please arrange with the school librarian to receive a visitor’s pass.

 

During the session

What to observe

• Methodologies & techniques employed, including interactivity (active learning)

• Materials used (print or electronic)

• Evaluation or assessment utilized, if any (describe)

• Your observations about the effectiveness of the session in meeting its goals & objectives

• What did you like about the session?

• What would you do differently? 

 

Observer etiquette

• Be on time.

• Remain unobtrusive, out of courtesy to the instructor and the students.

• If possible, ask the teacher ahead of time where you should sit.

• Be actively engaged in the observation (no outside work, texting, etc.). Turn off cell phones and other potential distractions before the class begins.

• Take descriptive notes on the features of the class session. Try to be as specific as possible, e.g. “Four students volunteered to answer the opening question” rather than making generalizations such as “Great interaction.”

• Stay the entire time unless you have previously arranged to leave at a break.

 

After the Session

• Keep in mind the purpose of your observation and your role as an observer.  Please do not offer criticisms or suggestions unless the teacher asks for this type of feedback.

• Briefly thank the instructor before you leave the classroom.

• Remember to keep your thoughts on the observation confidential. 

These tips and guidelines were created with help from Esther Grassian and from the following sources:

https://www.k-state.edu/elp/about/Classroom-etiquette.html

https://citl.illinois.edu/citl-101/teaching-learning/certificate-support-materials/classroom-observation-etiquette)

https://www.viu.edu/sed/sed-forms-resources/observation-guidelines/