Date Approved
4-29-1999
Embargo Period
7-21-2016
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. in Educational Leadership
Department
Educational Services and Leadership
College
College of Education
Advisor
Johnson, Theodore
Subject(s)
Peer review; Teachers--Rating of
Disciplines
Educational Leadership
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the benefits of peer observation as it affected the teaching staff of Woodbury Junior/Senior High School (New Jersey).
A survey was administered to a group of 13 teachers in the Woodbury Public Schools after they had experienced peer observation. The original sample included 28 teachers who had been selected by the intern in an attempt to guarantee diversity in age, experience, gender, and teaching discipline. Participation was voluntary and those who volunteered were permitted to select their partner and choose their role in the process. Twenty-four teachers wished to participate but almost half were disqualified because their schedule conflicted with their partner's schedule. All participants were free to decide whether they would observe or be observed. Once an observation was completed, each member of the pair filled out a brief questionnaire. The observer offered a reason for visiting that particular class. Both participants answered ten questions that were graded on a Likert scale. A mean score was used to interpret the data.
The data indicate that the respondents recognize, respect, and appreciate the skills and problem solving abilities of their teaching colleagues. The respondents would appreciate more opportunities where teachers can review their work with students and receive peer reinforcement and advice.
Recommended Citation
Hanley, William K., "Peer observation: a supplement to formal evaluation" (1999). Theses and Dissertations. 1809.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/1809
