Peer Observation Scheme 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.
Would you like to take a look at another teacher's work? Or would you like another teacher to observe you in order to provide feedback? This is possible with the Peer Observation programme! Then sign up for the Peer Observation programme.
During the Peer Observation programme, you observe each other while teaching. Experience shows that observing is at least as instructive as being observed. Several participants shared their experiences on our lecturer community TAUU.
The programme consists of three meetings and multiple observation sessions. The meetings focus on how and what to observe, how to give and receive feedback and how to reflect on your personal development as a lecturer. There is also time to exchange experiences. During the first meeting, pairs of lecturers are made to observe each other. In a pre- and post-observation meeting you discuss what you have seen. Subsequently, you question each other on intention, conviction, motives and qualities in order to delve more deeply into personal development. The programme is rounded off with a final discussion in which the programme is evaluated.
The Peer Observation programma is intended for all lecturers: from beginners to more experienced lecturers from all disciplines. The diversity contributes to the learning outcome.

Learning outcomes
After the scheme you:
- are able to observe a colleague, with a focus on specific elements of teaching;
- have practiced giving and receiving feedback.
- can reflect on yourself as a lecturer by analysing your own experiences (and those of others).
- have insight into your own development as a lecturer.
Planning
The programme takes place in block 2 and 3 of academic year 2022-2023. One of the conditions for participation is that the lecturers are teaching when the programme is running, so that this teaching can be observed. This may involve all kinds of teaching: individual coaching, tutor meetings, working lectures, lectures, etc. The programme is structured as follows:
Thursday 1 Dec 2022 | Meeting 1: |
2 Dec - 15 Feb 2022 | Peer observations in pairs, round 1: |
Thursday 16 Feb 2023 | Meeting 2: |
17 Feb - 19 Apr 2023 | Peer observations in pairs, round 2: |
Thursday 20 Apr 2023 | Meeting 3: |
8 t/m 17 May 2023 | Final interviews in pairs |
Application and more information
You can register for the programme 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.