NTLSN · Try it now · runs in your browser

Peer Review of Teaching

A structured template for observing a colleague's teaching. This is formative, developmental peer review — a conversation between colleagues that exists to support growth and reflection, not performance management or a judgement of competence. Notice what works, ask curious questions, and agree one small thing to try next. Fill it in during or after the session, then Copy as text or Print to share with your colleague. Nothing here is stored or sent — everything stays in your browser.

Context
Before the session

Set by the person being observed, so the focus is theirs.

1 · Climate, rapport & inclusion
  • How are students welcomed and put at ease?
  • Where do you notice an inclusive, respectful atmosphere?
  • How are different students given space to contribute?
2 · Structure & clarity
  • Are the aims or learning outcomes made clear?
  • How is the session organised and signposted?
  • How do the parts connect, and how is it drawn together?
3 · Engagement & active learning
  • What invites students to think and do, not just listen?
  • How are activities, discussion or pair work used?
  • Where is student energy and attention strongest?
4 · Explanation & questioning
  • How are ideas explained — examples, analogies, visuals?
  • What kinds of questions are asked, and how is wait time used?
  • How are student answers built on or checked for understanding?
5 · Materials, technology & accessibility
  • How do slides, handouts or tools support learning?
  • Are materials readable and accessible (contrast, captions, alt text)?
  • Can everyone see, hear and follow along?
6 · Assessment & feedback in the session

If any informal checks or feedback happened in the session — otherwise leave blank.

  • How is understanding checked during the session?
  • What feedback do students receive, and how timely is it?
  • How does the teacher adjust based on what students show?
Feedback conversation

A strengths-based frame for the chat afterwards. Lead with what worked.

This is a generic template — adapt the dimensions and wording to your own institution's peer-review scheme and values. Developmental peer review works best when it is voluntary, confidential to the pair, and owned by the person being observed. Everything runs in your browser; nothing is stored or sent.  ·  Reflective practice crash course  ·  ← Back to NTLSN