Teaching is a very demanding job. Not only do teachers spend hours each day in front of students teaching, but they have to plan great lessons that are able to reach each student and meet standards. Teachers also have to provide a classroom that accommodates the different learning styles of all students.
Planned observations and unplanned classroom walkthroughs can be nerve-wracking for teachers. Teaching children is one thing, but having peers or superiors watch is a whole different ballgame. Some teachers experience major anxiety during these observations. You may not be able to eliminate all anxiety, but there are things you can do to minimize the anxiety you experience.
If your observation is planned:
Unplanned walkthroughs give your administrator the opportunity to see a lesson that you have not specifically prepared for them to watch. This will give them an idea of what goes on in your classroom on a daily basis. This type of observation can be especially hard for an anxious teacher. There are things you can do in this situation to help your nerves.
If your walkthrough is unplanned:
Prepare for the unexpected in advance.
Creating detailed lesson plans ahead of time will allow you to ensure that you have included everything you need in your lessons. Make sure that you are putting your plans in writing, even if you aren't required to turn them in. This will help keep you on track every day and you will be prepared for any surprises.
Include research-based strategies in your teaching regularly. Use higher order thinking skills and make sure your students know the goals of the lessons. These are things that people look for in observations and walkthroughs.
Standing in front of a group of students is much less intimidating than standing in front of even one peer or administrator. Anxiety can be crippling. Don't let this affect your teaching. The above tips should help you make it through any observations or walkthroughs that come your way.
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