Peer Observation and Self-Reflection, Not Evaluation

Teaching Squares are used at many US institutions of higher ed, and the CTL is excited to pilot this exciting opportunity at Utah Tech. This is a peer observation program that is fundamentally about reflecting on what can be learned about one’s own teaching by observing colleagues.

Benefits for Individual Faculty

  • Encourages a growth mindset through self-reflection
  • Positions teaching as a scholarly activity
  • Confronts current teaching practices in a constructive way
  • Offers ideas for new student engagement and teaching strategies

Benefits for the University Community

  • Increases appreciation for the work of colleagues
  • Strengthens the sense of community across campus while reducing siloing
  • Fosters a campus culture of excellence in teaching

How it Works

Faculty will be grouped with three colleagues from different disciplines. You will have an initial meeting to go over the program, exchange info, and set goals. Then you observe the three members of your group. Finally, you will meet to talk about what you learned about your own practice by watching others. For a more detailed example of a teaching squares, please visit the link below.

Teaching squares will meet during month of October.

Next Steps

Sign up

If you are interest in joining a teaching square this fall, please fill out the google form by Sept 15, and the CTL will contact you.

Link to Google Form

Additional Reading

If you want more info, please click the link below to visit the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning at the University of Calgary Teaching Squares Guide

Link