Observation of learning, teaching, and assessment practices (OTLAs) policy

Aims and principles

A key component of the quality enhancement and assurance activity is the observation of:

  • learning
  • teaching
  • assessment

InspireU has incorporated this into:

  • personal development
  • the self-assessment processes

This supports continuous improvement in the delivery of learning.

InspireU encourages and supports a culture of critical self-evaluation. The process of observation is regarded as positive and progressive in the development of LTA.

The OTLAs policy and approaches are designed to provide one of a variety of measures which evaluates the standards of learning, teaching and assessment throughout InspireU. The outcomes of the OTLAs process are intended to:

  • support the individual staff member and curriculum teams in the delivery of learning, teaching and assessment
  • promote continuous improvement

In addition, it will inform the:

  • professional learning plans
  • appraisals and self-assessment procedures (in line with supervisions)

The procedures ensure that the learning experiences observed:

  • are not ‘special’ or contrived for the purposes of the observer
  • reflect the normal standard of delivery throughout InspireU

Aims

OTLAs aim to be:

· a key contributory factor in improving the learners’:

  • experience
  • outcomes
  • destinations

· a key facilitator of:

  • reflection
  • coaching
  • professional development

·a key tool in the identification and sharing of excellent learning practices

· an approach which identifies and rewards the delivery of excellent learning practices

· a method by which generic InspireU development and individual training or learning needs are identified

·a contributor to LTA evaluation at the following levels:

  • persona
  • provision manager
  • senior lead
  • principal
  • InspireU

This ensures an excellent learning experience and challenge, and support under performance.

Principles

The OLPs policy is underpinned by the following principles:

  • staff members at InspireU:
    • wish to provide the best possible learning experience for learners
    • take responsibility for their professional development with regards to learning, teaching and assessment
  • observations:
    • gather a rich variety of information from valid learning experiences
    • seek to understand not only the impact of the learning but also the context within which it is occurring
    • facilitate the sharing of effective practice between colleagues
  • conclusions regarding learning are best drawn when triangulation of findings are confirmed from multiple sources and observations
  • dialogue resulting from observation is employed in a respectful and non-judgemental manner. This will inform collaborative and collegiate professional learning
  • evaluations of learning experiences are used to inform developmental coaching conversation between staff. This facilitates personal and professional development