We found 69 results that contain "observation"
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Peer-Educator Dialogues & Learning Session Observation
This is a collection of resources aimed at helping educators engage in a process of observation and feedback with fellow educators. This certainly isn't the only way of engaging in a peer-educator dialogue, but aims to be a start point for folks just getting started. There may be additional resources provided by your unit, so be sure to check there as well.
NOTE: these materials are intended to serve as a foundation for providing feedback, engaging in dialogue, and ultimately promoting lifelong learning and growth in educator practice. Any documentation of a peer-educator dialogue should be provided directly to [only] the instructor-educator.
Photo by Antenna on Unsplash
NOTE: these materials are intended to serve as a foundation for providing feedback, engaging in dialogue, and ultimately promoting lifelong learning and growth in educator practice. Any documentation of a peer-educator dialogue should be provided directly to [only] the instructor-educator.
Photo by Antenna on Unsplash
PEDAGOGICAL DESIGN
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Peer Observations
Want to improve your teaching? Participating in a peer observation process is a great way to create a space for you to reflect upon your own teaching and open up a dialogue related to best practices in teaching. It is very important to note that peer observations are NOT evaluative and are NOT tied to performance review. They are a training and development tool to facilitate reflection and personal growth.A peer observation process can:
create a culture that values best practices in teaching and facilitation;
provide learning opportunities for employees to reflect upon their own teaching and facilitative leadership skills and learn from their peers; and
build capacity in teacher training, observation feedback, and general pedagogy within the organization.
The MSU Extension Peer Observation Process is based on the following premises.
Premise #1: Peer observation is helpful for teachers, especially for the one observing.
Faculty in higher education report that peer observation is useful (83%) and a majority (74%) feel it should be required (Divall, M. et al. 2019).
In peer observation, the true learner is the one who is observing (Richardson, 2000; Hendry & Oliver, 2012). Watching another teach is useful and instructive and allows teachers to discover new resources and ways of teaching, supports career-long learning in teaching, and provides a forum for teachers to discuss what good teaching is (Richardson, 2000).
Premise #2: Evaluative observation can be invalid and potentially destructive.
In evaluative observation, staff doing the observing may lack the motivation or knowledge to make good recommendations. It is also possible that that observer’s critique may damage the self-efficacy of the teacher being observed as a result of feedback that is not delivered in an appropriate way (Hendry & Oliver, 2012).
The validity of evaluative observations for measuring teacher efficacy is troublesome. Strong et al. (2011) looked at observations of teachers who were classified as “effective” or “ineffective” based on student achievement data, and then had observers with different levels of expertise watch recordings of those teachers teach and classify the teachers as “effective” or “ineffective.” Although judges were in high agreement (rater reliability), they demonstrated a low ability to identify effective teachers. Administrators and teacher educators were accurate only about one-third of the time. In other words, observers are unable to identify effective teachers from ineffective teachers.
To explore the conundrum of why evaluative observation isn’t accurate, I recommend reading Dr. Robert Coe’s blog post “Classroom observation: It’s hard than you think” (2014), published by the Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring at Durham University.
Premise 3#: Peer observation processes align to adult learning theory.
Theories of experiential learning, the teaching model used in 4-H, align to our proposed peer observation process. Experiential learning includes doing, reflecting, and applying. In the proposed peer observation process, the educators involved “do” by teaching or observing, “reflect” through post-observation reflection forms and structured conversations, and then “apply” by integrating new ideas and concepts into their own teaching.
The peer observation process aligns with social cognitive theory (Bandura, 1997) which posits that personal, behavioral, and environmental influences interact in learning. Concepts of self-efficacy, the belief that we can take actions to improve performance, is supported through the peer observation process.
Learn more about the MSU Extension Peer Observation Process.
References:
Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. London: W.H. Freeman & Co Ltd.
Coe, R. (2014, January 9). Classroom observation: it’s harder than you think. [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.cem.org/blog/414/.
DiVall, M., PharmD., Barr, Judith,M.Ed, ScD., Gonyeau, M., PharmD., Matthews, S. J., Van Amburgh, J., PharmD, Qualters, D., PhD., & Trujillo, J., PharmD. (2012). Follow-up assessment of a faculty peer observation and evaluation program. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 76(4), 1-61. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy1.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy1.cl.msu.edu/docview/1160465084?accountid=12598
J., Van Amburgh, J., PharmD, Qualters, D., PhD., & Trujillo, J., PharmD. (2012). Follow-up assessment of a faculty peer observation and evaluation program. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 76(4), 1-61. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/1160465084?accountid=12598
Hendry, G. D., & Oliver, G. R. (2012). Seeing is believing: The benefits of peer observation. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice, 9(1), 1-11. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/1037909669?accountid=12598
Richardson, M. O. (2000). Peer observation: Learning from one another. Thought & Action, 16(1), 9-20. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/62336021?accountid=12598
Strong, M., Gargani, J., & Hacifazlioğlu, Ö. (2011). Do We Know a Successful Teacher When We See One? Experiments in the Identification of Effective Teachers. Journal of Teacher Education, 62(4), 367–382. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022487110390221
Weller, S. (2009). What does "peer" mean in teaching observation for the professional development of higher education lecturers? International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 21(1), 25-35. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/757171496?accountid=12598
create a culture that values best practices in teaching and facilitation;
provide learning opportunities for employees to reflect upon their own teaching and facilitative leadership skills and learn from their peers; and
build capacity in teacher training, observation feedback, and general pedagogy within the organization.
The MSU Extension Peer Observation Process is based on the following premises.
Premise #1: Peer observation is helpful for teachers, especially for the one observing.
Faculty in higher education report that peer observation is useful (83%) and a majority (74%) feel it should be required (Divall, M. et al. 2019).
In peer observation, the true learner is the one who is observing (Richardson, 2000; Hendry & Oliver, 2012). Watching another teach is useful and instructive and allows teachers to discover new resources and ways of teaching, supports career-long learning in teaching, and provides a forum for teachers to discuss what good teaching is (Richardson, 2000).
Premise #2: Evaluative observation can be invalid and potentially destructive.
In evaluative observation, staff doing the observing may lack the motivation or knowledge to make good recommendations. It is also possible that that observer’s critique may damage the self-efficacy of the teacher being observed as a result of feedback that is not delivered in an appropriate way (Hendry & Oliver, 2012).
The validity of evaluative observations for measuring teacher efficacy is troublesome. Strong et al. (2011) looked at observations of teachers who were classified as “effective” or “ineffective” based on student achievement data, and then had observers with different levels of expertise watch recordings of those teachers teach and classify the teachers as “effective” or “ineffective.” Although judges were in high agreement (rater reliability), they demonstrated a low ability to identify effective teachers. Administrators and teacher educators were accurate only about one-third of the time. In other words, observers are unable to identify effective teachers from ineffective teachers.
To explore the conundrum of why evaluative observation isn’t accurate, I recommend reading Dr. Robert Coe’s blog post “Classroom observation: It’s hard than you think” (2014), published by the Centre for Evaluation & Monitoring at Durham University.
Premise 3#: Peer observation processes align to adult learning theory.
Theories of experiential learning, the teaching model used in 4-H, align to our proposed peer observation process. Experiential learning includes doing, reflecting, and applying. In the proposed peer observation process, the educators involved “do” by teaching or observing, “reflect” through post-observation reflection forms and structured conversations, and then “apply” by integrating new ideas and concepts into their own teaching.
The peer observation process aligns with social cognitive theory (Bandura, 1997) which posits that personal, behavioral, and environmental influences interact in learning. Concepts of self-efficacy, the belief that we can take actions to improve performance, is supported through the peer observation process.
Learn more about the MSU Extension Peer Observation Process.
References:
Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. London: W.H. Freeman & Co Ltd.
Coe, R. (2014, January 9). Classroom observation: it’s harder than you think. [Blog post]. Retrieved from https://www.cem.org/blog/414/.
DiVall, M., PharmD., Barr, Judith,M.Ed, ScD., Gonyeau, M., PharmD., Matthews, S. J., Van Amburgh, J., PharmD, Qualters, D., PhD., & Trujillo, J., PharmD. (2012). Follow-up assessment of a faculty peer observation and evaluation program. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 76(4), 1-61. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy1.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy1.cl.msu.edu/docview/1160465084?accountid=12598
J., Van Amburgh, J., PharmD, Qualters, D., PhD., & Trujillo, J., PharmD. (2012). Follow-up assessment of a faculty peer observation and evaluation program. American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 76(4), 1-61. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/1160465084?accountid=12598
Hendry, G. D., & Oliver, G. R. (2012). Seeing is believing: The benefits of peer observation. Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice, 9(1), 1-11. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/1037909669?accountid=12598
Richardson, M. O. (2000). Peer observation: Learning from one another. Thought & Action, 16(1), 9-20. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/62336021?accountid=12598
Strong, M., Gargani, J., & Hacifazlioğlu, Ö. (2011). Do We Know a Successful Teacher When We See One? Experiments in the Identification of Effective Teachers. Journal of Teacher Education, 62(4), 367–382. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022487110390221
Weller, S. (2009). What does "peer" mean in teaching observation for the professional development of higher education lecturers? International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 21(1), 25-35. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.msu.edu.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy2.cl.msu.edu/docview/757171496?accountid=12598
Authored by: Anne Baker
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Peer Observation of Teaching?
According to Brickman, Gormally, and Marchand Martella (2017), student evaluations at the end of each semester along with peer evaluations are the two sources through which faculty can receive feedback. That being said, faculty largely reported being dissatisfied with the information they received from student feedback. Specifically because student evaluations, “do not provide constructive information; have poor response rates; design do not align with instructors’ objectives; the evaluations only measure student satisfaction; and the process is not set up to truly engage students to attain useful and insightful feedback” (Brickman, Gormally & Marchand Martella, 2017, p4).These three authors advocate for structured, intentional, peer observations as one answer to the gap in feedback faced by faculty. “When peer evaluations are performed, they are more supportive of evidence-based teaching than student evaluations.”
So what is peer observation?
Peer observation “involves observers providing descriptive feedback to their peers on learning and teaching practice as a means to improve quality of teaching” (Sullivan et al. 2012). Basically, when educators observe each others’ practice with the goal of learning with and from one another. Benefits of peer observation for the practicing educator also include: sharing best practices, building awareness of your own teaching practice, identifying areas to improve or try something new, enhancing student learning by connecting the dots between learning design and student feedback, and engaging in a community of educators within your setting.
Effective peer observation includes both feedback and reflection, and focuses on individual educators’ needs (Sullivan et al., 2012). Participating in peer observation provides opportunities to both get and give feedback. Benefits of peer observation for the observer include: seeing practice to emulate, gain student perspective, connect with and support colleagues within and beyond your unit, learn about different teaching technologies, and set aside time to reflect on teaching. All educators have strengths and opportunities for growth, peer observation can help you identify both! Seeking out peer feedback, and providing feedback through observations can contribute to the ongoing construction of a professional community of educators at Michigan State!
The study conducted by Sullivan et al. (2012) found the practice of peer observation of teaching to be a constructive way to improve courses and learning design, to support and encourage educators, and to reinforce good practice. All that said, participating in peer observation is highly encouraged as a part of your educator practice at MSU. And remember: “It is very important to note that peer observations are NOT evaluative and are NOT tied to your annual review process (regardless of role). They are a training and development tool to facilitate reflection and personal growth regarding teaching” (Baker, 2021). Peer observation of teaching is essentially confidential between you and your observer/the observed. It’s up to the observed educator if they want to share their takeaways and/or action plans with their administrators.
Thanks to colleagues at The University of Queensland Institute for Teaching and Learning Innovation, Leeds Metropolitan University, Cambridge Assessment International Education Teaching and Learning Team, University of Toronto Center for Teaching Support & Innovation, University of Texas at Austin Faculty Innovation Center, University of South Carolina Center for Teaching Excellence, and the Northeastern Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning Through Research.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES:Brickman, P., Gormally, C. & Marchand Martella, A. (2016) Making the grade: Using instructional feedback and evaluation to inspire evidence-based teaching, CBE—Life Sciences Education, 15,4.https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.15-12-0249Sullivan, P.B., Buckle, A., Nicky, G. & Atkinson, S.H. (2012) Peer observation of teaching as a faculty development tool. BMC Medical Education, 12, 26. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6920-12-26 Baker, A. (2021) Peer Observations, #iteachmsu Commons. https://iteach.msu.edu/iteachmsu/groups/iteachmsu/stories/2106 Race, P. et al. (2009) Using peer observation to enhance teaching. Leeds Met Press. ISBN 978-0-9560099-7-5 Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash
So what is peer observation?
Peer observation “involves observers providing descriptive feedback to their peers on learning and teaching practice as a means to improve quality of teaching” (Sullivan et al. 2012). Basically, when educators observe each others’ practice with the goal of learning with and from one another. Benefits of peer observation for the practicing educator also include: sharing best practices, building awareness of your own teaching practice, identifying areas to improve or try something new, enhancing student learning by connecting the dots between learning design and student feedback, and engaging in a community of educators within your setting.
Effective peer observation includes both feedback and reflection, and focuses on individual educators’ needs (Sullivan et al., 2012). Participating in peer observation provides opportunities to both get and give feedback. Benefits of peer observation for the observer include: seeing practice to emulate, gain student perspective, connect with and support colleagues within and beyond your unit, learn about different teaching technologies, and set aside time to reflect on teaching. All educators have strengths and opportunities for growth, peer observation can help you identify both! Seeking out peer feedback, and providing feedback through observations can contribute to the ongoing construction of a professional community of educators at Michigan State!
The study conducted by Sullivan et al. (2012) found the practice of peer observation of teaching to be a constructive way to improve courses and learning design, to support and encourage educators, and to reinforce good practice. All that said, participating in peer observation is highly encouraged as a part of your educator practice at MSU. And remember: “It is very important to note that peer observations are NOT evaluative and are NOT tied to your annual review process (regardless of role). They are a training and development tool to facilitate reflection and personal growth regarding teaching” (Baker, 2021). Peer observation of teaching is essentially confidential between you and your observer/the observed. It’s up to the observed educator if they want to share their takeaways and/or action plans with their administrators.
Thanks to colleagues at The University of Queensland Institute for Teaching and Learning Innovation, Leeds Metropolitan University, Cambridge Assessment International Education Teaching and Learning Team, University of Toronto Center for Teaching Support & Innovation, University of Texas at Austin Faculty Innovation Center, University of South Carolina Center for Teaching Excellence, and the Northeastern Center for Advancing Teaching and Learning Through Research.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES:Brickman, P., Gormally, C. & Marchand Martella, A. (2016) Making the grade: Using instructional feedback and evaluation to inspire evidence-based teaching, CBE—Life Sciences Education, 15,4.https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.15-12-0249Sullivan, P.B., Buckle, A., Nicky, G. & Atkinson, S.H. (2012) Peer observation of teaching as a faculty development tool. BMC Medical Education, 12, 26. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6920-12-26 Baker, A. (2021) Peer Observations, #iteachmsu Commons. https://iteach.msu.edu/iteachmsu/groups/iteachmsu/stories/2106 Race, P. et al. (2009) Using peer observation to enhance teaching. Leeds Met Press. ISBN 978-0-9560099-7-5 Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash
Authored by: Makena Neal
Assessing Learning
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Peer-Educator Dialogue Protocol
Peer-Educator Dialogue Protocol
Date:Time:Instructor-Educator:Course Number:Course Title:Modality:# Students Enrolled:# Students Present:Peer-Educator:
This dialogue protocol can be used independently or in conjunction with the Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide. It is important to note that the peer-educator dialogue should be an iterative process of lifelong learning and practice improvement. These are tools aimed at helping educators learn with and from one another. How an instructor-educator utilizes or shares the feedback provided in through this dialogue process is completely up to them.
Before class starts:
Short observations such as: when instructor-educator arrives, what happens (e.g. do they greet students?)? Does class start on time? How many students are present? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Introduction:
Does the instructor-educator give context for today’s lesson/learning experience? (What does this look like?) How does the instructor-educator motivate students? What is student response? Do students arrive late? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Core Learning Experience:
Is there variety and pacing in the planned learning experience(s)? Can/do students ask questions? Is the conversation 2-way/are the students part of the conversation or passive listeners? How are student questions addressed? Is it clear how this material relates to the course? (the field?) What percentage of class time is spent in lecture? What might you say about the instructor-educator’s presentation skills? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Group Activity/Participation:
Are students engaged? How are activities relevant? Are these activities intended to be evaluated? If so, how? What percentage of class time is spent in such activities? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Conclusion:
Did the session seem organized well? Did it end on time? Was there any recap or mention of course goals/objectives? Were diverse examples, resources, perspectives etc. included? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Additional comments/observations:
This document was adapted with permission from 2019 document "AAN Peer Observation Protocol" by Patricia Stewart.Photo by Amy Hirschi on Unsplash
Date:Time:Instructor-Educator:Course Number:Course Title:Modality:# Students Enrolled:# Students Present:Peer-Educator:
This dialogue protocol can be used independently or in conjunction with the Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide. It is important to note that the peer-educator dialogue should be an iterative process of lifelong learning and practice improvement. These are tools aimed at helping educators learn with and from one another. How an instructor-educator utilizes or shares the feedback provided in through this dialogue process is completely up to them.
Before class starts:
Short observations such as: when instructor-educator arrives, what happens (e.g. do they greet students?)? Does class start on time? How many students are present? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Introduction:
Does the instructor-educator give context for today’s lesson/learning experience? (What does this look like?) How does the instructor-educator motivate students? What is student response? Do students arrive late? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Core Learning Experience:
Is there variety and pacing in the planned learning experience(s)? Can/do students ask questions? Is the conversation 2-way/are the students part of the conversation or passive listeners? How are student questions addressed? Is it clear how this material relates to the course? (the field?) What percentage of class time is spent in lecture? What might you say about the instructor-educator’s presentation skills? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Group Activity/Participation:
Are students engaged? How are activities relevant? Are these activities intended to be evaluated? If so, how? What percentage of class time is spent in such activities? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Conclusion:
Did the session seem organized well? Did it end on time? Was there any recap or mention of course goals/objectives? Were diverse examples, resources, perspectives etc. included? Please note examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors.
Went well:
Consider for enhancement:
Additional comments/observations:
This document was adapted with permission from 2019 document "AAN Peer Observation Protocol" by Patricia Stewart.Photo by Amy Hirschi on Unsplash
Posted by: Makena Neal
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Etiquette for Peer-Educator Learning-Experience Sessions
Thinking about how to improve your educator practice, tapping in to expertise on campus, or engaging with high-impact peers can feel intimidating. Here are a few etiquette tips to accompany Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide and Protocol.
Remember, peer-educator dialogues can be initiated for multiple reasons including: an instructor-educator looking for peer-educator feedback on a learning session observation, OR a peer-educator looking to observe a peer-educator employ a practice they'd like to incorporate/improve
Regardless, avoid engaging in a learning-expereince as a peer-educator during the first two or three weeks of a semester.
Before going to observe the class, check with the instructor-educator to see if they would like to meet with you in advance. It helps to find out in advance about the class you will be engaging with— what the course is designed to do, what level the students are at, what the teacher is planning to do in the specific class to be observed and why. This could help you to make more sense of what it is that goes on in the learning-expereince.
note: if you cannot meet to have this conversation due to the complex nature of schedules, it is recommended that you asynchronously ammend the Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide to ensure the engagement meets goals all around.
Double-check with the instructor-educator prior to the engagement on:
where you sit in the classroom. Many educators may not care where you sit, as long as it doesn’t interfere with instruction, but some may have preferences.
If you didn’t have a chance to meet prior to the observation, ask the instructor-educator when you arrive.
whether or not it’s all right to move around from group to group during group-work activities.
whether or not you are going to participate in activities or just observe. (Generally speaking, it’s preferable not to participate while doing an observation. When the purpose is to observe instructor-educator, it makes more sense to focus your attention on that task.)
Arrive on time, or early — arriving late is always an interruption. And stay throughout the entire class period. Getting up and leaving early is also an interruption.
No matter how non-threatening and cooperative the peer-educator may be, learning-session observations are a necessary imposition (but an imposition nonetheless). As peer-educators, it’s good to keep this in mind when observing and let it guide your actions.
Also keep in mind that the observation should be a positive experience for both the peer-educator and the instructor-educator. Ideally, both educators will learn something as a result of the observation.
When the learning-experience ends, thank the instructor-educator (and, if possible, the learners) for inviting/allowing you to observe them.
Debriefing should be done as soon as is feasible after the class session, while the events are still fresh in mind.
In general, if you have concerns, you can ask questions to clarify some things that happened in the class
“I’m very interested in learning more about XXXX. Could you explain why you set up the XXXX activity the way you did?”
“How do you think it went?”
The instructor-educator may have planned something that they thought was going to work marvelously, but didn’t... Or, if they noticed that it didn’t work, they may ask you for your ideas about how it could have been more effective.
Keep in mind how you would feel if you were the one being observed, and what kinds of feedback would be most useful to you.
If you notice a number of areas where the learning-expereince could be enhanced, try not to overwhelm the instructor-educator with suggestions; limit your feedback to the areas where they are seeking feedback, or perhaps those points that seem most immediately important to address.
Share your notes and onservations from the Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide and Protocol with ONLY the instructor-educator. This practice is purely a itterative dialogue amongst peers, NOT an evaluative report to be shared with administratiors. What an instructor-educator chooses to do with your notes is up to them.
This list has been adapted from the University of Hawai'i, English Language Institute "Guidelines and Etiquette for Observers".Photo by Dom Fou on Unsplash
Remember, peer-educator dialogues can be initiated for multiple reasons including: an instructor-educator looking for peer-educator feedback on a learning session observation, OR a peer-educator looking to observe a peer-educator employ a practice they'd like to incorporate/improve
Regardless, avoid engaging in a learning-expereince as a peer-educator during the first two or three weeks of a semester.
Before going to observe the class, check with the instructor-educator to see if they would like to meet with you in advance. It helps to find out in advance about the class you will be engaging with— what the course is designed to do, what level the students are at, what the teacher is planning to do in the specific class to be observed and why. This could help you to make more sense of what it is that goes on in the learning-expereince.
note: if you cannot meet to have this conversation due to the complex nature of schedules, it is recommended that you asynchronously ammend the Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide to ensure the engagement meets goals all around.
Double-check with the instructor-educator prior to the engagement on:
where you sit in the classroom. Many educators may not care where you sit, as long as it doesn’t interfere with instruction, but some may have preferences.
If you didn’t have a chance to meet prior to the observation, ask the instructor-educator when you arrive.
whether or not it’s all right to move around from group to group during group-work activities.
whether or not you are going to participate in activities or just observe. (Generally speaking, it’s preferable not to participate while doing an observation. When the purpose is to observe instructor-educator, it makes more sense to focus your attention on that task.)
Arrive on time, or early — arriving late is always an interruption. And stay throughout the entire class period. Getting up and leaving early is also an interruption.
No matter how non-threatening and cooperative the peer-educator may be, learning-session observations are a necessary imposition (but an imposition nonetheless). As peer-educators, it’s good to keep this in mind when observing and let it guide your actions.
Also keep in mind that the observation should be a positive experience for both the peer-educator and the instructor-educator. Ideally, both educators will learn something as a result of the observation.
When the learning-experience ends, thank the instructor-educator (and, if possible, the learners) for inviting/allowing you to observe them.
Debriefing should be done as soon as is feasible after the class session, while the events are still fresh in mind.
In general, if you have concerns, you can ask questions to clarify some things that happened in the class
“I’m very interested in learning more about XXXX. Could you explain why you set up the XXXX activity the way you did?”
“How do you think it went?”
The instructor-educator may have planned something that they thought was going to work marvelously, but didn’t... Or, if they noticed that it didn’t work, they may ask you for your ideas about how it could have been more effective.
Keep in mind how you would feel if you were the one being observed, and what kinds of feedback would be most useful to you.
If you notice a number of areas where the learning-expereince could be enhanced, try not to overwhelm the instructor-educator with suggestions; limit your feedback to the areas where they are seeking feedback, or perhaps those points that seem most immediately important to address.
Share your notes and onservations from the Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide and Protocol with ONLY the instructor-educator. This practice is purely a itterative dialogue amongst peers, NOT an evaluative report to be shared with administratiors. What an instructor-educator chooses to do with your notes is up to them.
This list has been adapted from the University of Hawai'i, English Language Institute "Guidelines and Etiquette for Observers".Photo by Dom Fou on Unsplash
Posted by: Makena Neal
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide
Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide[*]
This is a "Checklist" guide, not a scaled rating or evaluation form. This guide is intended to be used as a tool to enable educators… “who teach, supervise and/or support students’ learning to gain feedback from one or more colleagues as part of the process of reflecting on their own practices” (University of Exeter). It asks peer-educators to indicate the presence of teaching activities/behaviors already established as indicative of high-quality teaching. Individual educators, units, departments, etc. can determine which of the items in the categorized lists below reflect their priorities; a targeted set of items per list will make the guide easier for educators to use.
Date:Time: Instructor-educator name:Course #:Course Title:Modality:No. Students:Peer-Educator name:
Peer-educator instructions: Indicate with a check (√) the presence of the following actions and behaviors that indicate high quality teaching. Leave blank items you do not observe. Use N/A if an item is not relevant for this experience or the instructor’s teaching style.
Variety and Pacing of Instruction
The instructor-educator:
uses more than one form of instruction
pauses after asking questions
accepts students’ responses
draws non-participating students into activities/discussions
prevents specific students from dominating activities/discussions
helps students extend their responses
guides the direction of discussion
mediates conflict or differences of opinion
demonstrates active listening
provides explicit directions for active learning tasks (e.g. rationale, duration, product)
allows sufficient time to complete tasks such as group work
specifies how learning tasks will be evaluated (if at all)
provides opportunities and time for students to practice
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Organization
The instructor-educator :
arrives on time
relates this and previous class(es), or provides students with an opportunity to do so
provides class goals or objectives for the class session
provides an outline or organization for the class session
knows how to use the educational technology needed for the class
locates class materials as needed
makes transitional statements between class segments
follows the stated structure
conveys the purpose of each class activity or assignment
completes the scheduled topics
summarizes periodically and at the end of class (or prompts students to do so)
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Presentation Skills
The instructor-educator:
is audible to all students
articulates words so that they are understandable to students, and/or visually represents words that might he difficult for students to hear
varies the tone and pitch of voice for emphasis and interest
speaks at a pace that permits students to understand and take notes
establishes and maintains eye contact
avoids over-reliance on reading content from notes, slides, or texts
avoids distracting mannerisms
uses visual aids effectively (e.g. when appropriate to reinforce a concept, legible handwriting, readable slides)
effectively uses the classroom space
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Clarity
The instructor-educator:
notes new terms or concepts
elaborates or repeats complex information
uses examples to explain content
makes explicit statements drawing student attention to certain ideas
pauses during explanations to ask and answer questions
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Content Knowledge
The instructor-educator:
makes statements that are accurate according to the standards of the field
incorporates current research in the field
identifies sources, perspectives, and authorities in the field
identifies diverse sources, perspectives, and authorities in the field
communicates the reasoning process behind operations and/or concepts
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Instructor-Student Rapport
The instructor-educator:
attends respectfully to student comprehension or puzzlement
invites students’ participation and comments
treats students as individuals (e.g. uses students’ names)
provides periodic feedback
incorporates student ideas into class
uses positive reinforcement (i.e. doesn’t punish or deliberately embarrass students in class)
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
General Peer-Educator Reflection:
What did you observe that went well?
What suggestions for enhancement do you have?
Additional Comments:
[*] Adapted 1/2006 from Chism, N.V.N. (1999) Chapter 6: Classroom Observation, Peer Review of Teaching: A Sourcebook. Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing, by Angela R. Linse, Executive Director, Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence, Penn State. If you further adapt this form, please include this source citation.
This is a "Checklist" guide, not a scaled rating or evaluation form. This guide is intended to be used as a tool to enable educators… “who teach, supervise and/or support students’ learning to gain feedback from one or more colleagues as part of the process of reflecting on their own practices” (University of Exeter). It asks peer-educators to indicate the presence of teaching activities/behaviors already established as indicative of high-quality teaching. Individual educators, units, departments, etc. can determine which of the items in the categorized lists below reflect their priorities; a targeted set of items per list will make the guide easier for educators to use.
Date:Time: Instructor-educator name:Course #:Course Title:Modality:No. Students:Peer-Educator name:
Peer-educator instructions: Indicate with a check (√) the presence of the following actions and behaviors that indicate high quality teaching. Leave blank items you do not observe. Use N/A if an item is not relevant for this experience or the instructor’s teaching style.
Variety and Pacing of Instruction
The instructor-educator:
uses more than one form of instruction
pauses after asking questions
accepts students’ responses
draws non-participating students into activities/discussions
prevents specific students from dominating activities/discussions
helps students extend their responses
guides the direction of discussion
mediates conflict or differences of opinion
demonstrates active listening
provides explicit directions for active learning tasks (e.g. rationale, duration, product)
allows sufficient time to complete tasks such as group work
specifies how learning tasks will be evaluated (if at all)
provides opportunities and time for students to practice
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Organization
The instructor-educator :
arrives on time
relates this and previous class(es), or provides students with an opportunity to do so
provides class goals or objectives for the class session
provides an outline or organization for the class session
knows how to use the educational technology needed for the class
locates class materials as needed
makes transitional statements between class segments
follows the stated structure
conveys the purpose of each class activity or assignment
completes the scheduled topics
summarizes periodically and at the end of class (or prompts students to do so)
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Presentation Skills
The instructor-educator:
is audible to all students
articulates words so that they are understandable to students, and/or visually represents words that might he difficult for students to hear
varies the tone and pitch of voice for emphasis and interest
speaks at a pace that permits students to understand and take notes
establishes and maintains eye contact
avoids over-reliance on reading content from notes, slides, or texts
avoids distracting mannerisms
uses visual aids effectively (e.g. when appropriate to reinforce a concept, legible handwriting, readable slides)
effectively uses the classroom space
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Clarity
The instructor-educator:
notes new terms or concepts
elaborates or repeats complex information
uses examples to explain content
makes explicit statements drawing student attention to certain ideas
pauses during explanations to ask and answer questions
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Content Knowledge
The instructor-educator:
makes statements that are accurate according to the standards of the field
incorporates current research in the field
identifies sources, perspectives, and authorities in the field
identifies diverse sources, perspectives, and authorities in the field
communicates the reasoning process behind operations and/or concepts
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
Instructor-Student Rapport
The instructor-educator:
attends respectfully to student comprehension or puzzlement
invites students’ participation and comments
treats students as individuals (e.g. uses students’ names)
provides periodic feedback
incorporates student ideas into class
uses positive reinforcement (i.e. doesn’t punish or deliberately embarrass students in class)
Examples of instructor-educator actions or behaviors that support the above indications (√):
General Peer-Educator Reflection:
What did you observe that went well?
What suggestions for enhancement do you have?
Additional Comments:
[*] Adapted 1/2006 from Chism, N.V.N. (1999) Chapter 6: Classroom Observation, Peer Review of Teaching: A Sourcebook. Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing, by Angela R. Linse, Executive Director, Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence, Penn State. If you further adapt this form, please include this source citation.
Posted by: Makena Neal
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Fostering Inclusive Learning: MSU's Approach to Religious Accommodations
MSU’s religious observance policy is in place to ensure that students and their instructors are free to observe cultural and religious traditions without academic penalty. This year, with Finals Week falling at a time when many religious observances are likely to be happening, it is worth reflecting on how we as educators can best build a culture of flexibility and accommodation into our teaching. Each class and each scenario will require a unique response, so blanket policy statements can only provide broad guidance; our responses when accommodation requests come in must be bounded by that guidance, but must also be responsive to the specific demands of our class and the individual needs of the students making the requests.
MSU's religious observance policy underscores the importance of believing students' needs for accommodations without requiring them to prove their religious commitments. It's crucial for instructors to be open and encouraging towards such self-advocacy, creating a classroom atmosphere that is both welcoming and safe, while providing clear mechanisms for students to communicate with the instructor any accommodation requests that they may have.
It’s also essential to acknowledge that accommodations need to be flexible and tailored to the specific context of each class, considering factors such as course size, modality, type, timing, structure, and many others. Instructors should be responsive to the needs of their individual students, adapting as necessary while keeping the educational objectives in focus. The goal is always to ensure an equitable learning experience, which is more easily accomplished when a class employs the principles of Universal Design for Learning.
By being open to modifying our approaches based on the unique needs and circumstances of our students, we can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. This not only benefits students who require accommodations but enriches the educational experience for the entire class.
MSU's religious observance policy underscores the importance of believing students' needs for accommodations without requiring them to prove their religious commitments. It's crucial for instructors to be open and encouraging towards such self-advocacy, creating a classroom atmosphere that is both welcoming and safe, while providing clear mechanisms for students to communicate with the instructor any accommodation requests that they may have.
It’s also essential to acknowledge that accommodations need to be flexible and tailored to the specific context of each class, considering factors such as course size, modality, type, timing, structure, and many others. Instructors should be responsive to the needs of their individual students, adapting as necessary while keeping the educational objectives in focus. The goal is always to ensure an equitable learning experience, which is more easily accomplished when a class employs the principles of Universal Design for Learning.
By being open to modifying our approaches based on the unique needs and circumstances of our students, we can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. This not only benefits students who require accommodations but enriches the educational experience for the entire class.
Authored by: Jeremy Van Hof
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Accommodations During Passover and Ramadan
On March 22, 2024, MSU's Religious Observance Policy Implementation Committee, the College of Arts and Letters, the Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion, James Madison College, the College of Social Science, the Residential College of Arts and Humanities, International Studies and Programs, and the Asian Studies Center sponsored the "Webinar for MSU Faculty: Accommodations During Passover and Ramadan"The virtual discussion included insights on how students can/should be accommodated during Ramadan and Passover (including final exams on the first two days of Passover). The group also shared key information about the practices and significance of Passover and Ramadan more broadly. Associate Dean Sonja Fritzsche, Professor Yael Aronoff, Professor Mohammad Khalil, Professor Morgan Shipley, and Professor Laura Yares lead the discussion (the full recording is below).
Here are some "quick facts" from the presentation:
The [Gregorian Calendar] dates that both Ramadan and Passover fall on, shift from year to year. Their occurrences are instead based on the Lunar Calendar (with Solar adjustments for Judaism).
Ramadan Kareem is a common greeting during Ramadan that means "may you have a generous Ramadan". You may also hear "Ramadan Mubarak" which means "may you have a blessed Ramadan".
Eid al-Fitr (festival of breaking the fast) is a special day Muslims, celebrated this year on April 10 (+/- one day).
Different demoninations of Judiasim celebrate Passover in different ways - one person's observance is one person's observance. never assume, let them tell you how they observe.
The first observences of Passover start at Sundown on Monday April 22. The first two days and last two days (Chag/Yom Tov) have special rules related to doing labor or work... This includes things like checking email and utilizing public transportation, SO if you have important information for student, please be sure to communicate prior to sundown on April 22 or after sundown on April 24 AND prior to sundown on April 28 or after sundown on April 30
Be proactive to let students know you won't be emailing during this period so they don't feel conflicted between their MSU responsibilities and their religious observances.
Student may have to travel farther to access kosher foods during this time.
Large community and family celebrations are inherently times of heightened stress, without the added pressure of academic finals.
Remember, "Observences are always going to be somewhat idiosyncratic due to the customs of individuals, communities, and families." For more information on these holidays and MSU's Religious Observances guidance check out the items below:
MSU Religious Observance Policy
MSU general Religious Observance resources
Religious Observance FAQs
Fostering Inclusive Learning: MSU's Approach to Religious Accommodations
Ramadan at MSU: A Brief Guide for 2024
MSU Hillel Passover 2024
Eat at State: Passover Dining Options
Photo by Mohamed Nohassi on Unsplash
Here are some "quick facts" from the presentation:
The [Gregorian Calendar] dates that both Ramadan and Passover fall on, shift from year to year. Their occurrences are instead based on the Lunar Calendar (with Solar adjustments for Judaism).
Ramadan Kareem is a common greeting during Ramadan that means "may you have a generous Ramadan". You may also hear "Ramadan Mubarak" which means "may you have a blessed Ramadan".
Eid al-Fitr (festival of breaking the fast) is a special day Muslims, celebrated this year on April 10 (+/- one day).
Different demoninations of Judiasim celebrate Passover in different ways - one person's observance is one person's observance. never assume, let them tell you how they observe.
The first observences of Passover start at Sundown on Monday April 22. The first two days and last two days (Chag/Yom Tov) have special rules related to doing labor or work... This includes things like checking email and utilizing public transportation, SO if you have important information for student, please be sure to communicate prior to sundown on April 22 or after sundown on April 24 AND prior to sundown on April 28 or after sundown on April 30
Be proactive to let students know you won't be emailing during this period so they don't feel conflicted between their MSU responsibilities and their religious observances.
Student may have to travel farther to access kosher foods during this time.
Large community and family celebrations are inherently times of heightened stress, without the added pressure of academic finals.
Remember, "Observences are always going to be somewhat idiosyncratic due to the customs of individuals, communities, and families." For more information on these holidays and MSU's Religious Observances guidance check out the items below:
MSU Religious Observance Policy
MSU general Religious Observance resources
Religious Observance FAQs
Fostering Inclusive Learning: MSU's Approach to Religious Accommodations
Ramadan at MSU: A Brief Guide for 2024
MSU Hillel Passover 2024
Eat at State: Passover Dining Options
Photo by Mohamed Nohassi on Unsplash
Posted by: Makena Neal
Justice and Belonging
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Syllabi at MSU
An Overview of the Syllabus and its Role at MSU
In this resource, we describe the purpose and history of the syllabus and describe the required and recommended elements of syllabi at Michigan State. We end with links to MSU’s many existing syllabus guidelines and resources. While what to include in your syllabus is flexible, we encourage educators to keep students’ needs in mind and think about how your syllabus can contribute to their learning.
What a syllabus is
A syllabus is a synecdoche for a course of study—a part of the curricular experience that represents the whole. They are often the very first course texts our students encounter and, accordingly, they frame and preface learning in powerful ways. On one hand, they communicate practical and structural details—where and when a course meets, what to read, and how to contact an instructor. But they also express intellectual and discipline-specific expectations.
As a special genre of educational texts, syllabi have taken various forms and played various roles over many centuries. In the 17th century ‘syllabus’ was synonymous with ‘table’ or ‘index.’ They served as a structural preview for manuscripts or a list of speakers and topics for a lecture series—they were a means of organizing texts, ideas, and experience. Although that core function remains, post-secondary syllabi have expanded significantly in volume and purview over the past forty years.
What a syllabus needs at MSU
There is no universal definition or template for contemporary syllabi. There are, however, some critical things that effective syllabi share. At Michigan State University, our Code of Teaching Responsibility states “Instructors [are] responsible for distributing a course syllabus (either in print or electronic form) at the beginning of the semester [that] minimally includes:
instructional objectives;
instructor contact information and office hours;
grading criteria and methods used to determine final course grades;
date of the final examination and tentative dates of required assignments, quizzes, and tests, if applicable;
attendance policy, if different from the University attendance policy and especially when that attendance policy affects student grades;
required and recommended course materials to be purchased, including textbooks and supplies; and any required proctoring arrangements to which students must adhere.”
If you are creating a new course or new to teaching at MSU, it can be helpful to request sample syllabi from your Departmental Chair, from past versions of the course you're teaching or even adjacent courses. These samples can help you learn more about general and discipline-specific expectations within your department. Syllabus templates are also available from different colleges; for example, CANR has a downloadable template.
Additional considerations
Beyond the fundamental requirements listed above, contemporary syllabi often include additional information or passages. We encourage MSU educators to consider including the following policies, keeping empathy and flexibility in mind:
notify students about MSU’s religious observance policy
describe available mental health resources
include equal opportunity/affirmative action and inclusion statements
include statements on civil discourse and the civil discourse policy
consider including your attendance policy
acknowledge the indigenous land(s) on which their teaching will occur
provide an accessibility statement, link to the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities
list institutional resources to support students
describe policies for student athletes
explain the technologies students will be required or asked to use
describe the instructor’s communication preferences or instructions for scheduling office hour appointments
describe COVID-specific health and wellness guidelines or emergency measures
provide information about academic dishonesty
provide study or writing tips and link to the Writing Center
include other course- or college-relevant policies
Some instructors include these and other statements in a ‘policies’ section, while others prefer to write a shorter syllabus that refers students to other course documents containing these and other course and university resources.
Flexibility for students
It's best to communicate expectations in the syllabus for students that need to miss class or discuss adjustments to due dates with you for excusable reasons, such as religious observance, bereavement, health, or athletic competition. We strongly recommend that educators consult the university’s academic calendar and a current interfaith calendar when planning your course and make accommodations for students’ religious observance, or when courses directly conflict (e.g. final examination conflicts). Educators should make every effort to avoid scheduling exams and oral presentations during days of religious observance. It's best to remember that if the absence is excusable, and you'd do it for one student, you should apply your method consistently for all students. Your syllabus should include when and how to contact you to make arrangements for excusable absences. Instructors should provide a university expectation/deadline by which students need to inform instructors of an accommodation (i.e., 2 weeks after the start of the semester) in the syllabus, and this expectation be iterated during the first day of class. We encourage you to be flexible and empathic with students, and to act consistently and equitably.
Innovative models for syllabi
Many educators, especially over the past few decades, have experimented with syllabi and created texts that reach far beyond basic documentation. For instance, some instructors use a fill-in-the-blank syllabus whereby students are asked to expand a set of learning objectives or required texts in order to customize their learning. The ‘annotated syllabus’ model gives students the opportunity to make suggestions for the syllabus at the beginning of the course, making it more of a living document. Others have reconfigured the syllabus as a course textbook and used it throughout the semester to support learning (instead of just the first week). Other models reimagine the aesthetic potential of the document, approaching it as a graphic novel (Barry, 2017), mixtape, or chapbook (Lockett and Wong, 2018). Although their approaches differ, these educators have questioned the role and conventions of syllabi and found creative ways to expand the educational potential of these ubiquitous texts.
Additional MSU syllabus resources
MSU Syllabus Checklist with in-depth descriptions of potential sections of the syllabus.
Syllabus Checklist (2-page version)
Revised MSU Syllabus Checklist for [Fall 2020] online and hybrid courses
Inclusive Pedagogy Syllabus & Template
Civil Discourse Syllabus
Discourse Policy on Syllabus
Attendance Policy on Syllabus
Syllabus Resources from the Office of the University Ombudsperson
Generative AI Syllabus Guide (with examples and sample language)
Calendar of Religious Observances from MSU's Office of the Provost
Guidelines for Online Camera Policies
Advice for MSU students about using a syllabus
Additional readings
Rocha et al. (2022) The syllabus as curriculum: A reconceptualist approach.
Hsu (2020). A celebration of the syllabus.
Germano and Nicholls (2020) Syllabus: The remarkable, unremarkable document that changes everything.
Lockett and Wong (2018). Reframing syllabi as aesthetic encounters.
Barry (2017). Syllabus: Notes from an accidental professor.
In this resource, we describe the purpose and history of the syllabus and describe the required and recommended elements of syllabi at Michigan State. We end with links to MSU’s many existing syllabus guidelines and resources. While what to include in your syllabus is flexible, we encourage educators to keep students’ needs in mind and think about how your syllabus can contribute to their learning.
What a syllabus is
A syllabus is a synecdoche for a course of study—a part of the curricular experience that represents the whole. They are often the very first course texts our students encounter and, accordingly, they frame and preface learning in powerful ways. On one hand, they communicate practical and structural details—where and when a course meets, what to read, and how to contact an instructor. But they also express intellectual and discipline-specific expectations.
As a special genre of educational texts, syllabi have taken various forms and played various roles over many centuries. In the 17th century ‘syllabus’ was synonymous with ‘table’ or ‘index.’ They served as a structural preview for manuscripts or a list of speakers and topics for a lecture series—they were a means of organizing texts, ideas, and experience. Although that core function remains, post-secondary syllabi have expanded significantly in volume and purview over the past forty years.
What a syllabus needs at MSU
There is no universal definition or template for contemporary syllabi. There are, however, some critical things that effective syllabi share. At Michigan State University, our Code of Teaching Responsibility states “Instructors [are] responsible for distributing a course syllabus (either in print or electronic form) at the beginning of the semester [that] minimally includes:
instructional objectives;
instructor contact information and office hours;
grading criteria and methods used to determine final course grades;
date of the final examination and tentative dates of required assignments, quizzes, and tests, if applicable;
attendance policy, if different from the University attendance policy and especially when that attendance policy affects student grades;
required and recommended course materials to be purchased, including textbooks and supplies; and any required proctoring arrangements to which students must adhere.”
If you are creating a new course or new to teaching at MSU, it can be helpful to request sample syllabi from your Departmental Chair, from past versions of the course you're teaching or even adjacent courses. These samples can help you learn more about general and discipline-specific expectations within your department. Syllabus templates are also available from different colleges; for example, CANR has a downloadable template.
Additional considerations
Beyond the fundamental requirements listed above, contemporary syllabi often include additional information or passages. We encourage MSU educators to consider including the following policies, keeping empathy and flexibility in mind:
notify students about MSU’s religious observance policy
describe available mental health resources
include equal opportunity/affirmative action and inclusion statements
include statements on civil discourse and the civil discourse policy
consider including your attendance policy
acknowledge the indigenous land(s) on which their teaching will occur
provide an accessibility statement, link to the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities
list institutional resources to support students
describe policies for student athletes
explain the technologies students will be required or asked to use
describe the instructor’s communication preferences or instructions for scheduling office hour appointments
describe COVID-specific health and wellness guidelines or emergency measures
provide information about academic dishonesty
provide study or writing tips and link to the Writing Center
include other course- or college-relevant policies
Some instructors include these and other statements in a ‘policies’ section, while others prefer to write a shorter syllabus that refers students to other course documents containing these and other course and university resources.
Flexibility for students
It's best to communicate expectations in the syllabus for students that need to miss class or discuss adjustments to due dates with you for excusable reasons, such as religious observance, bereavement, health, or athletic competition. We strongly recommend that educators consult the university’s academic calendar and a current interfaith calendar when planning your course and make accommodations for students’ religious observance, or when courses directly conflict (e.g. final examination conflicts). Educators should make every effort to avoid scheduling exams and oral presentations during days of religious observance. It's best to remember that if the absence is excusable, and you'd do it for one student, you should apply your method consistently for all students. Your syllabus should include when and how to contact you to make arrangements for excusable absences. Instructors should provide a university expectation/deadline by which students need to inform instructors of an accommodation (i.e., 2 weeks after the start of the semester) in the syllabus, and this expectation be iterated during the first day of class. We encourage you to be flexible and empathic with students, and to act consistently and equitably.
Innovative models for syllabi
Many educators, especially over the past few decades, have experimented with syllabi and created texts that reach far beyond basic documentation. For instance, some instructors use a fill-in-the-blank syllabus whereby students are asked to expand a set of learning objectives or required texts in order to customize their learning. The ‘annotated syllabus’ model gives students the opportunity to make suggestions for the syllabus at the beginning of the course, making it more of a living document. Others have reconfigured the syllabus as a course textbook and used it throughout the semester to support learning (instead of just the first week). Other models reimagine the aesthetic potential of the document, approaching it as a graphic novel (Barry, 2017), mixtape, or chapbook (Lockett and Wong, 2018). Although their approaches differ, these educators have questioned the role and conventions of syllabi and found creative ways to expand the educational potential of these ubiquitous texts.
Additional MSU syllabus resources
MSU Syllabus Checklist with in-depth descriptions of potential sections of the syllabus.
Syllabus Checklist (2-page version)
Revised MSU Syllabus Checklist for [Fall 2020] online and hybrid courses
Inclusive Pedagogy Syllabus & Template
Civil Discourse Syllabus
Discourse Policy on Syllabus
Attendance Policy on Syllabus
Syllabus Resources from the Office of the University Ombudsperson
Generative AI Syllabus Guide (with examples and sample language)
Calendar of Religious Observances from MSU's Office of the Provost
Guidelines for Online Camera Policies
Advice for MSU students about using a syllabus
Additional readings
Rocha et al. (2022) The syllabus as curriculum: A reconceptualist approach.
Hsu (2020). A celebration of the syllabus.
Germano and Nicholls (2020) Syllabus: The remarkable, unremarkable document that changes everything.
Lockett and Wong (2018). Reframing syllabi as aesthetic encounters.
Barry (2017). Syllabus: Notes from an accidental professor.
Authored by: CTLI
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
It is important to note that the peer-educator dialogue should be an iterative process of lifelong learning and practice improvement. These are tools aimed at helping educators learn with and from one another. How an instructor-educator utilizes or shares the feedback provided in through this dialogue process is completely up to them.
Click the attachment below to download a copy of the Peer-Educator Dialogue Protocol (.docx, 41KB).
Click the attachment below to download a copy of the Peer-Educator Dialogue Protocol (.docx, 41KB).
Posted by: Makena Neal
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
A Peer-Educator Dialogue Guide is now available for MSU Educators who want to collaborate in bettering their educator practice through observation and dialogue with other educators (https://iteach.msu.edu/iteachmsu/groups/iteachmsu/stories/2393?param=post). If you'd like to print a copy of the Guide to complete, you can download a copy by clicking the attachment (.docx, 6.32MB) below.
Note: this resource was adapted 1/2006 from Chism, N.V.N. (1999) Chapter 6: Classroom Observation, Peer Review of Teaching: A Sourcebook. Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing, by Angela R. Linse, Executive Director, Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence, Penn State.
Note: this resource was adapted 1/2006 from Chism, N.V.N. (1999) Chapter 6: Classroom Observation, Peer Review of Teaching: A Sourcebook. Bolton, MA: Anker Publishing, by Angela R. Linse, Executive Director, Schreyer Institute for Teaching Excellence, Penn State.
Posted by: Makena Neal
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: #iteachmsu
Religious Observance at MSU
All members of the MSU community, including educators and students, are eligible to observe their religious beliefs. Designing your course schedule to avoid conflicts with major days of religious observance will reduce the need to resolve individual conflicts and will better reflect and serve MSU's diverse and multicultural community.
The Office of the Provost website maintains a religious observance calendar and FAQ page (https://provost.msu.edu/academic-resources/religious-observance-calendar with dates through 2026) for educators and students. Educators are encouraged to consult this calendar before scheduling exams, tests, and major assignments.
The full policy on religious observance, including instructors' responsibilities to accommodate students' religious observance as well as students' responsibility to inform instructors about potential conflicts, can be found https://reg.msu.edu/roinfo/notices/religiouspolicy.aspx here.
All members of the MSU community, including educators and students, are eligible to observe their religious beliefs. Designing your course schedule to avoid conflicts with major days of religious observance will reduce the need to resolve individual conflicts and will better reflect and serve MSU's diverse and multicultural community.
The Office of the Provost website maintains a religious observance calendar and FAQ page (https://provost.msu.edu/academic-resources/religious-observance-calendar with dates through 2026) for educators and students. Educators are encouraged to consult this calendar before scheduling exams, tests, and major assignments.
The full policy on religious observance, including instructors' responsibilities to accommodate students' religious observance as well as students' responsibility to inform instructors about potential conflicts, can be found https://reg.msu.edu/roinfo/notices/religiouspolicy.aspx here.
Posted by: Ellie Louson
Navigating Context
Posted on: #iteachmsu
There are important engagements between peer-educator and instructor-educator before and after the actual learning session observation. Check out the attachment (.docx, 86KB) to review this process and the considerations of each "step".
Posted by: Makena Neal
Pedagogical Design
Posted on: GenAI & Education
AI Commons Bulletin 1/29/2025
Human-curated news about generative AI for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.
✨ Model Course Framework for Teaching Ethical and Effective Use of AI
Educators from LUT University, Finland, lay out a course with 4 modules;
- Introduction to Generative AI
- Ethics in Generative AI Usage
- Core Principles of Efficiency and Prompt Engineering
- Project Work for Practicing Efficient AI Usage
Learn More: https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/7d863060-bedf-446e-9862-154add2711fc/content
💯 ChatGPT4 Enrolled in an Online Masters Course and Earned Top Grades
In an online Master of Health Administration course, neither the instructor nor students knew the top-performing student was AI. ChatGPT excelled in quizzes, tests, attendance, and discussions.
Learn More: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/aupha/jhae/2024/00000040/00000004/art00005
👣 Step-By-Step Instructions for Building an AI Skills Trainer
Law professor Alexandria Serra shares how they created “MootMentor AI” to provide students practical legal advocacy experience. Key insights include pre-building decisions. See page 91 for details.
Learn More: https://scholarlycommons.law.case.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1168&context=jolti
💬 Communication Teacher: Special Issue on AI
A special issue of Communication Teacher explores four AI adaptation stances: observation, replication, enhancement, and transformation. Articles cover how educators integrate generative AI, with assignments, student reflections, and practical applications for communication courses.
Learn More: https://doi.org/10.1080/17404622.2024.2419012
Bulletin items compiled by MJ Jackson and Sarah Freye with production assistance from Lisa Batchelder. Get the AI-Commons Bulletin on our Microsoft Teams channel, at aicommons.commons.msu.edu, or by email (send an email to aicommons@msu.edu with the word “subscribe”).
Human-curated news about generative AI for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education.
✨ Model Course Framework for Teaching Ethical and Effective Use of AI
Educators from LUT University, Finland, lay out a course with 4 modules;
- Introduction to Generative AI
- Ethics in Generative AI Usage
- Core Principles of Efficiency and Prompt Engineering
- Project Work for Practicing Efficient AI Usage
Learn More: https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/7d863060-bedf-446e-9862-154add2711fc/content
💯 ChatGPT4 Enrolled in an Online Masters Course and Earned Top Grades
In an online Master of Health Administration course, neither the instructor nor students knew the top-performing student was AI. ChatGPT excelled in quizzes, tests, attendance, and discussions.
Learn More: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/aupha/jhae/2024/00000040/00000004/art00005
👣 Step-By-Step Instructions for Building an AI Skills Trainer
Law professor Alexandria Serra shares how they created “MootMentor AI” to provide students practical legal advocacy experience. Key insights include pre-building decisions. See page 91 for details.
Learn More: https://scholarlycommons.law.case.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1168&context=jolti
💬 Communication Teacher: Special Issue on AI
A special issue of Communication Teacher explores four AI adaptation stances: observation, replication, enhancement, and transformation. Articles cover how educators integrate generative AI, with assignments, student reflections, and practical applications for communication courses.
Learn More: https://doi.org/10.1080/17404622.2024.2419012
Bulletin items compiled by MJ Jackson and Sarah Freye with production assistance from Lisa Batchelder. Get the AI-Commons Bulletin on our Microsoft Teams channel, at aicommons.commons.msu.edu, or by email (send an email to aicommons@msu.edu with the word “subscribe”).
Posted by: Sarah Freye