Observation

Peer observation is a good method for you to get feedback on your facilitation skills. You can use the facilitation/presentation assessment instrument previously introduced in exercise 3–2 and ask a trusted peer to observe a part of the course you’re facilitating. If you use this approach, remember these things:

• The peer evaluator must be a high-performing facilitator.

• The peer evaluator must be familiar with the evaluation instrument.

• The peer evaluator must have your developmental interests in mind.

• You must have confidence in your peer’s evaluation of you.

• You must not facilitate differently when the peer evaluator is observing your facilitation.

• You must be willing to use the feedback.

Think About This

Some training rooms have an observation booth where others can unobtrusively view the facilitator and learners. This feature provides an excellent opportunity to reduce the bias that would be introduced if you tend to perform differently when you know you’re being observed.

Another option is to videotape your facilitation. You can tape the entire learning event or particular modules you are concerned about. You then have the option of reviewing the video by yourself or with a trusted peer. You could combine this activity with the use of an objective instrument (such as the facilitation/presentation assessment in exercise 3–2) to help carry out a complete review with less subjectivity.