Overview of Observe
The Observe module provides comprehensive observation and evaluation capabilities designed specifically for K-12 professional development. You can conduct classroom observations, manage performance reviews, and generate detailed reports to support teacher growth and evaluation processes.
What is Observe
Observe is a digital observation and evaluation platform that replaces traditional paper-based processes. The system allows observers to conduct real-time evaluations using structured forms, capture evidence through attachments, and generate comprehensive reports for professional development purposes.
The module supports both informal classroom observations and formal performance reviews, providing a complete evaluation workflow from initial observation through final reporting.
Key Features and Capabilities
Observation Types
Classroom Observations: Conduct walkthroughs and formal observations using customizable rubrics and forms. You can capture real-time data, add comments, and score performance indicators during live classroom visits.
Performance Reviews: Create comprehensive evaluations that can incorporate multiple classroom observations. Performance reviews provide a holistic view of teacher performance over time.
Forms and Rubrics
Customizable Forms: Use pre-built observation forms or create custom evaluation instruments tailored to your organization's needs. Forms can include various question types, rating scales, and scoring mechanisms.
Rubric Support: Implement detailed rubrics with performance indicators and scoring criteria. The system supports both matrix and traditional rubric formats.
Rating Scales: Configure multiple rating scales to match your evaluation standards, from simple satisfactory/unsatisfactory to detailed 4-point performance scales.
Evidence Collection
Attachments: Document observations with photos, videos, audio recordings, and documents. All evidence is securely stored and linked to specific evaluation questions or overall observations.
Comments and Feedback: Add detailed comments throughout the observation process. You can provide feedback on specific performance indicators or include general observations.
Real-time Documentation: Capture evidence and feedback during live observations using mobile-friendly interfaces.
Reporting and Analytics
Individual Reports: Generate detailed reports for individual teachers showing observation history, performance trends, and growth areas.
Organizational Reports: View aggregated data across schools, departments, or grade levels to identify patterns and improvement opportunities.
Export Capabilities: Export observation data, performance reviews, and reports in multiple formats including PDF and CSV.
User Roles
The Observe module uses specific roles to control access and functionality:
Observer Role
Observers can conduct classroom observations and performance reviews. This role is typically assigned to administrators, instructional coaches, and department heads who evaluate teaching performance.
Key permissions:
- Create and conduct observations
- Access observation forms and rubrics
- Add attachments and comments
- Generate individual reports
Observable Role
Observables are the staff members being evaluated, typically teachers and support staff. Users with this role receive observations and can view their evaluation history.
Key permissions:
- View their own observation history
- Access feedback and comments
- View performance reports
- Receive evaluation notifications
Evaluator Role
Evaluators have enhanced permissions for formal evaluation processes. This role is often assigned to principals and assistant principals who conduct official performance reviews.
Key permissions:
- Conduct formal performance reviews
- Access all observer capabilities
- Manage evaluation periods
- Approve final evaluations
Reporter Role
Reporters can access analytics and reporting features across multiple users and organizations. This role is typically assigned to district administrators and data analysts.
Key permissions:
- View aggregated reports
- Export evaluation data
- Access trend analysis
- Generate district-wide reports
Navigation and Dashboard Overview
Main Dashboard
When you access Observe, the main dashboard provides quick access to:
Recent Activity: View your most recent observations and performance reviews Quick Actions: Start new observations or access frequently used forms Summary Statistics: See observation totals and completion rates Pending Items: Access observations requiring completion or review
Navigation Menu
The Observe menu structure includes:
Observations: Create, view, and manage classroom observations Performance Reviews: Conduct and review formal evaluations My Observations: View observations where you were the observee (Observable role) Reports: Access analytics and export capabilities Forms & Rubrics: Manage evaluation instruments (appropriate roles only)
Getting Started
To begin using Observe:
- Verify your user roles are properly assigned
- Review available forms and rubrics for your organization
- Complete any required training on evaluation procedures
- Start with informal observations to familiarize yourself with the system
- Progress to formal evaluations as appropriate for your role
The system provides contextual help and guidance throughout the evaluation process to ensure consistent and effective use of the observation tools.