Observations
Observations Overview
Learn how the observation system works and what roles can participate in the observation process.
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
Section titled “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
Section titled “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
Section titled “Observation Roles”Three primary roles participate in the observation process:
Observer Role
Section titled “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
Section titled “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
Section titled “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
Section titled “Observation Workflow”The observation process follows these stages:
1. Planning
Section titled “1. Planning”- Select appropriate form set
- Choose observable person
- Set observation date and time
- Add context information
2. Conducting
Section titled “2. Conducting”- Open observation form
- Complete required sections
- Score rubric items
- Add narrative comments
- Attach supporting files
3. Reviewing
Section titled “3. Reviewing”- Review responses and scores
- Add final comments
- Verify completion
- Submit observation
4. Sharing
Section titled “4. Sharing”- System sends notification emails
- Observable receives access
- Reports become available
- Data feeds into analytics
Form Sets and Forms
Section titled “Form Sets and Forms”Observations use structured forms organized into form sets:
Form Sets
Section titled “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
Individual forms within a form set focus on specific areas:
- Teaching effectiveness
- Classroom management
- Professional responsibilities
- Student engagement
Form Sections
Section titled “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
Section titled “Entry Points”Observations can be created through different entry points:
Web Form Entry
Section titled “Web Form Entry”- Complete observations online
- Real-time form completion
- Immediate submission
- Full feature access
Blank Form Export
Section titled “Blank Form Export”- Generate empty PDF forms
- Complete observations offline
- Manual data entry later
- Useful for field observations
Observation Data
Section titled “Observation Data”Each observation captures comprehensive information:
Basic Information
Section titled “Basic Information”- Observable person
- Observer conducting
- Date and time
- Organization/school
- Grade level and content area
Responses
Section titled “Responses”- All form question answers
- Rubric scores and ratings
- Narrative comments
- File attachments
Status Tracking
Section titled “Status Tracking”- Draft or completed status
- Submission timestamps
- Email notifications sent
- Access permissions
Getting Started
Section titled “Getting Started”To begin using observations:
- Verify your role - Ensure you have Observer, Observable, or Evaluator permissions
- Access observations - Navigate to the weCLIMB section
- Review available forms - Check which form sets are available to you
- Start your first observation - Begin with a simple walkthrough form
- 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.