Observations Overview

The observation system enables structured classroom visits and performance evaluations. You can conduct formal observations, informal walkthroughs, and comprehensive performance reviews using customizable forms and rubrics.

What Are Observations

Observations are structured evaluations that document classroom visits, teaching practices, and professional performance. The system supports multiple observation types designed for different evaluation purposes.

Observation Types

Observations

• Classroom walkthroughs
• Formal lesson evaluations
• Peer observations
• Informal visits

Performance Reviews

• Annual evaluations
• Mid-year reviews
• Comprehensive assessments
• Goal-setting sessions

Observation Roles

Three primary roles participate in the observation process:

Observer Role

Observers conduct observations and evaluations. They can:

• Start new observations
• Complete observation forms
• Add comments and feedback
• Submit completed evaluations
• View their conducted observations

Typical job titles with Observer role: Instructional Coaches, Assistant Principals, District Coaches

Observable Role

Observables are the people being observed. They can:

• View completed observations about them
• Access feedback and scores
• Review performance data
• Receive evaluation notifications

Typical job titles with Observable role: Teachers, Paraprofessionals, Counselors

Evaluator Role

Evaluators can conduct observations and manage the evaluation process. This role includes:

• All Observer permissions
• Access to evaluation reports
• Ability to reopen completed observations
• Advanced evaluation management

Typical job titles with Evaluator role: Principals, District Administrators

Observation Workflow

The observation process follows these stages:

1. Planning

• Select appropriate form set
• Choose observable person
• Set observation date and time
• Add context information

2. Conducting

• Open observation form
• Complete required sections
• Score rubric items
• Add narrative comments
• Attach supporting files

3. Reviewing

• Review responses and scores
• Add final comments
• Verify completion
• Submit observation

4. Sharing

• System sends notification emails
• Observable receives access
• Reports become available
• Data feeds into analytics

Form Sets and Forms

Observations use structured forms organized into form sets:

Form Sets

Form sets are collections of related forms used for specific evaluation purposes:

• Observation Form Sets: For classroom observations
• Performance Review Form Sets: For annual evaluations
• Contains multiple forms covering different domains

Forms

Individual forms within a form set focus on specific areas:

• Teaching effectiveness
• Classroom management
• Professional responsibilities
• Student engagement

Form Sections

Forms are divided into sections that group related questions:

• May use rubric scoring
• Can include narrative questions
• Support file attachments
• Allow for comments

Entry Points

Observations can be created through different entry points:

Web Form Entry

• Complete observations online
• Real-time form completion
• Immediate submission
• Full feature access

Blank Form Export

• Generate empty PDF forms
• Complete observations offline
• Manual data entry later
• Useful for field observations

Observation Data

Each observation captures comprehensive information:

Basic Information

• Observable person
• Observer conducting
• Date and time
• Organization/school
• Grade level and content area

Responses

• All form question answers
• Rubric scores and ratings
• Narrative comments
• File attachments

Status Tracking

• Draft or completed status
• Submission timestamps
• Email notifications sent
• Access permissions

Getting Started

To begin using observations:

1. Verify your role - Ensure you have Observer, Observable, or Evaluator permissions
2. Access observations - Navigate to the Observe section
3. Review available forms - Check which form sets are available to you
4. Start your first observation - Begin with a simple walkthrough form
5. Complete the process - Follow the workflow from planning to sharing

The observation system provides powerful tools for documenting professional practice and supporting educator growth through structured, meaningful feedback.