Peer Observation Programme for Lecturers
Observing a peer made me think of why I believe something is good or bad teaching. So, it made my values and preferences more explicit.
Teaching often is an individual matter: what happens in the classroom stays in the classroom. While you can learn so much by observing another colleague (Tenenberg, 2016). Would you like to observe another teacher? And share experiences with other teachers? You can do that with the Peer Observation Programme!
The Peer Observation Programme focuses on learning by observing another person. The programme consists of three joint meetings and at least two observation rounds in pairs. The meetings focus on how and what to observe, and how to reflect on your personal developments as a teacher based on what you see in the other person. There is also room for exchanging experiences.
I learnt more about how I feel about being a teacher by observing each other, digging deeper and using creative reflection tools during the joint POP meetings.
During the first meeting, the pairs of teachers who will observe each other are formed. In a pre- and post-observation, you discuss within your pair what your focus is for the observation and what you have seen and learned. In the meetings, you question each other using different models on intention, conviction, drives and qualities to go more deeply into each other's personal development. The Peer Observation Programme is intended for all teachers: from beginners to more experiences teachers in all disciplines. This diversity adds to the learning benefit for everyone.
Learning outcomes
After the scheme, participants will be able to:
- observe other teachers to gain insight in their own development as a teacher;
- ask meaningful questions and exchange experiences to add to the development of themself and others;
- reflect on one’s own development as a teacher en knows several models and tools to deepen the reflections.
- have a deeper understanding of who they are as teacher and how to develop further.
Planning
The programme takes place in block 1 and 2 in academic year 2026-2027. One of the conditions for participation is that teachers teach in block 1 and/or 2, so that this teaching can be observed. This may include all kinds of teaching: individual coaching, tutor meetings, seminars, lectures, et cetera. The programme is structured as follows:
| Monday 21 September 2026 9:30-13:00 | Meeting 1: Kick off meeting (and dividing in couples) |
| 22 sep to 1 nov 2026 | Peer observations in pairs, round 1: With pre- and post-observation interviews to be arranged by participants themselves |
| Monday 2 November 9:30-13:00 | Meeting 2: Exchange and diving deeper |
| 3 nov to 29 nov 2026 | Peer observations in pairs, round 2: With pre- and post-observation interviews to be arranged by participants themselves |
| Monday 30 November 9:30-13:00 | Meeting 3: Exchange and diving deeper |
| 31 nov – 16 dec 2026 | Final interviews in pairs |
Application and more information
You can register until 14 September via this link. For more information, please contact the Centre for Academic Teaching and Learning; cat@uu.nl with the mention of Peer Observation Programme.
The POP has provided me with useful tools to reflect on your own teaching style and that of others in an informed way.
Year calendar 2026-2027
Semester I
From 31 August, introductions will be taking palce. For the exact schedule, please check the annual calendar on your course page.
- Start period 1: Monday 7 September (week 37)
- Start period 2: Monday 16 November (week 47)
Education free days: Monday 21 December until Friday 1 January (week 52 and week 53)
Semester II
- Start period 3: Monday 8 February (week 6)
- Start period 4: Monday 26 April (week 17)
End period 4: Friday 2 July (week 26)