Peer Observation Programme for Lecturers

Observing a peer made me think of why I believe something is good or bad teaching. So, it made my values and preferences more explicit.

Tamara, deelnemer POP

Teaching often is an individual matter: what happens in the classroom stays in the classroom. While you can learn so much by observing another colleague (Tenenberg, 2016). Would you like to observe another teacher? And share experiences with other teachers? You can do that with the Peer Observation Programme!

The Peer Observation Programme focuses on learning by observing another person. The programme consists of three joint meetings and at least two observation rounds in pairs. The meetings focus on how and what to observe, and how to reflect on your personal developments as a teacher based on what you see in the other person. There is also room for exchanging experiences.

I learnt more about how I feel about being a teacher by observing each other, digging deeper and using creative reflection tools during the joint POP meetings.

Sara, participant POP

During the first meeting, the pairs of teachers who will observe each other are formed. In a pre- and post-observation, you discuss within your pair what your focus is for the observation and what you have seen and learned. In the meetings, you question each other using different models on intention, conviction, drives and qualities to go more deeply into each other's personal development. The Peer Observation Programme is intended for all teachers: from beginners to more experiences teachers in all disciplines. This diversity adds to the learning benefit for everyone.

Learning outcomes

After the scheme, participants will be able to:

  • observe other teachers to gain insight in their own development as a teacher;
  • ask meaningful questions and exchange experiences to add to the development of themself and others;
  • reflect on one鈥檚 own development as a teacher en knows several models and tools to deepen the reflections.
  • have a deeper understanding of who they are as teacher and how to develop further.

Planning

The programme takes place from block 2 in academic year 2025-2026. One of the conditions for participation is that teachers teach in block 2 and/or 3, so that this teaching can be observed. This may include all kinds of teaching: individual coaching, tutor meetings, seminars, lectures, et cetera. The programme is structured as follows:

Monday 10 November 9:30-13:00

Meeting 1:
Kick off meeting (and dividing in couples)

15 Nov 2025 to 8 Feb 2026

Peer observations in pairs, round 1:
With pre- and post-observation interviews to be arranged by participants themselves

Monday 9 February 9:30-13:00

Meeting 2: 
Exchange and diving deeper

14 Feb - 17 May 2026

Peer observations in pairs, round 2:
With pre- and post-observation interviews to be arranged by participants themselves

Monday 18 May 9:30-13:00

Meeting 3:
Exchange and diving deeper

25 - 29 May 2026

Final interviews in pairs

Application and more information

You can register for 2025-2026 via . For more information, please contact the Centre for Academic Teaching and Learning; cat@uu.nl with the mention of Peer Observation Programme.

The POP has provided me with useful tools to reflect on your own teaching style and that of others in an informed way.

Jeroen, participant POP