Peer Observation and Self-Reflection, Not Evaluation

Teaching Squares are used at many US institutions of higher ed, and the CTL is excited to facilitate this opportunity at Utah Tech for the second year. 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.

Testimonials

I had the pleasure of participating in a Teaching Square and the time was worthwhile. In the 15 years I have been teaching at this campus, this is the first time I have had the opportunity to sit in a class outside of my discipline. I gained valuable ideas that I plan on implementing into my own courses next semester. Thank you for the opportunity!

-Aurora Galeana (English)

I thoroughly enjoyed participating in Teaching Squares this semester. It was a great way to meet faculty in other disciplines and witness first-hand the variety of instructional strategies we all use to achieve the same goal of student learning. I got to branch out of my discipline for a little bit to learn about philosophy, marriage, and public speaking, while looking for ways to apply learning strategies to a math classroom. I enjoyed celebrating the wonderful teachers we have here at Utah Tech and left feeling inspired with new ideas and a stronger desire to improve my craft.

-Trevor Johnson (Mathematics)

I found participating in Teaching Squares a positive experience. I witnessed three excellent teachers plying their craft. This allowed me to feel supported in my own teaching as I saw them do some of the things I do. I was encouraged to make strong connections with students while simultaneously challenging those students with rigorous, difficult questions and practical application of the material. Participation in Teaching Squares also gave me a link to other faculty outside of my own discipline.

-Jason Wilde (Family Studies &Human Development)

Teaching Square has helped me not only gain exposure to disciplines outside my college but also get acquainted with new and not-so-new faculty.  I was siloed, and Teaching Square helped me get out and see what others are doing.  It helped me make new friends across campus and that helps foster discussions going forward.  Thanks for your efforts.  I hope to participate again.

-Kyle Wells (School of Business)

If you are interested in joining a teaching square in the fall of 2026, please contact Emily FitzGerald.