What is the Student Observer Program?
The Student Observer Program is an experiential and paid opportunity for students to reflect about teaching, learning, and classroom engagement. This is a unique opportunity for students to provide valuable input to faculty and potentially shape the teaching-learning dynamic at St. Norbert College.
Purpose
The purpose of the Student Observer Program is to provide faculty with students to sit in on their classes and provide specific feedback as requested by the faculty member. Students are trained to make observations, record data, ask questions, and provide insights about the classroom learning experience, from a student perspective. The program is designed to provide the faculty member with feedback during the semester.
How it Works
Faculty members request an observer for a particular course. A Student Observer is assigned to meet with the professor to discuss areas of focus for the class visit. Then, the student sits in on the course, makes observations, and records their notes. Finally, the student and professor meet to debrief. The process is most effective when the faculty member chooses one or two specific classroom behaviors to focus on. For example, a faculty member may wish for the student to note the comfort level of students when different methods are used to call on students.
How to Get Started
Faculty. If you are interested in having a student observer sit in on a class, complete the application form below. The Peer Observation Form (see below) will be used as a starting point to discuss, with the student observer, which specific classroom behaviors you would like the student to observe.
Student Observer Request form. Click here.
Students. If you are interested in becoming a student observer, complete the application form linked here.
