PAIRS and PODS

PAIRS and PODS is a professional learning structure focused on classroom observation, shared reflection and dialogue in order to develop teachers as learners and improve student outcomes.

PAIRS Teachers, in pairs, volunteer to participate in the program. They learn from each other through planned, non-threatening, non-evaluative visits to each others classrooms. The focus here is more on student learning than on teacher performance.

PODS Pairs periodically gather to form a larger POD, which is a mutual ground for shared reflection and for discussing the craft of teaching.

HOW PAIRS WORKS

You visit my classroom - I set the agenda regarding what I want you to observe - It might be just the introduction to the lesson, for example - We can offer each other support in terms of focused and evidenced observation - Afterwards, we will talk so that you can share with me your observation - Then we will do it all in reverse - Use of video encouraged, not obliged

HOW PODS WORK

The POD has a leader. The leader organises a meeting of up to four pairs, to follow a series of classroom visits. The POD discusses the observations remembering to focus on student learning more than on teacher performance. Each individual owns the material gathered in the observation stage and opts to share as much or as little of the material as he / she wishes. The POD develops at least one action step from its meeting. Some action steps might be Advice to the SLT. Presentation to all staff. Commitment to implement a particular strategy across all PAIRS for discussion at a future POD meeting. Idea for a Learning Framework (new or amendment to existing) to be fed to the Learning Committee. PAIR swaps, to give me the opportunity to see a classroom technique or strategy that sounds really interesting and that I would like to experience first hand.

HOUSE RULES

You own the material (the observations) You share as much or as little of the material as you wish The POD has a leader The POD develops at least one action step from its meeting

PAIR/POD RECORDING SHEET

Date of visit: Teacher visited: Section of lesson observed: Notes: (focus more on student learning than teacher performance):

In what way has this experience impacted your thinking and / or future classroom practices?

Share as a pair:

Share with the pod: