Peer review becomes a source of evidence for assessment of teaching when instructors provide documentation of peer feedback and include their own explanation of how this feedback has been used to inform decisions about teaching.

Peer review might be based on classroom observations as well as a review of course materials. Here are a few steps for how you can get started with the process: 

  1. Gather Feedback 

    Arrange for fellow instructors to observe your teaching and document their observations. Encourage them to provide specific feedback on various aspects your teaching, such as the clarity of your presentations, the engagement of the students, and the alignment of the materials with your learning objectives for the course. 

  2. Review Feedback

    After collecting feedback, take the time to thoroughly review and reflect on the insights provided. Identify common themes or suggestions that may indicate areas for improvement. Consider a follow-up discussion to dive deeper into their observations and suggestions.

  3. Implement Changes

    Develop a plan to integrate the feedback into your teaching practices. This may involve revising lesson plans, adopting new instructional strategies, or modifying assessment methods. Document the changes made and the reasons behind them, linking them directly to the feedback received. This documentation will be crucial in demonstrating how peer feedback has contributed to your teaching development.

  4. Evaluate Impact

    After implementing changes, assess their impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. 

Documenting Peer Feedback for Assessment

When preparing for a teaching effectiveness assessment, it is important to provide a detailed description of how peer feedback has been used to inform and enhance your teaching. This should include:

  • Documentation of Feedback: Keep records of the feedback received, including notes from observation sessions and subsequent discussions.
  • Description of Implementations: Clearly articulate the specific changes made to your teaching practices based on the feedback and explain how these changes address the feedback.
  • Evidence of Impact: Provide examples or evidence showing how the changes influenced your teaching effectiveness and enhanced student learning.

Framework for Peer Observation of Teaching

This Center for Teaching downloadable resource contains guidelines and instructions to guide the process of peer feedback for both the instructor and peer observer.

Classroom Observation

The Center for Teaching offers this confidential, voluntary resource which provides feedback and insights to help instructors enhance their teaching.

Preparing to Complete a Teaching Review

This Center for Teaching guide is designed to help users conduct an effective peer review of teaching, from setting goals and gathering data to documenting and providing feedback.