While the observation itself is a very important tool in mentoring a Teacher Candidate, one could argue that the after observation conference is just as or more important as the observation itself. We will layout ideas to help run a meaningful and positive experience for both the Cooperating Teacher and the Teacher Candidate.
- Purpose: The purpose of the after observation conference is to guide, mentor, celebrate, and set goals for the Teacher Candidate.
- Role: Cooperating Teacher-The role of the Cooperating teacher in the conference is one of coach, not cheerleader. The Teacher Candidate needs to hear constructive feedback that will help them grow and that will give them a purpose in their observations of their Cooperating Teacher and will help guide co-teaching ideas to support their goals.
- Role: Teacher Candidate: The role of the Teacher Candidate is to be open to the feedback, to take notes in a way that fits their learning and reflection style. They are to set goals with the Cooperating Teacher that have an action plan and are manageable to accomplish. Finally, they are to complete a reflection (format is up to the candidate) that will help guide them to reach their goals and reflect on the lesson that was observed.
- Environment: The conference should be a place of trust and honesty. The Teacher Candidate should feel safe and allowed to be volnerable about their teaching. It is up to the Cooperating Teacher to set the tone and support the candidate in their growth. The Cooperating Teacher is really helping to grow the profession and these conferences play an intralingual part in that growth.
- Resources: There are a lot of different ways to observe and conference with your candidate. Below are some links to resources that you might find helpful when having a conference with your Teacher Candidate.
- Conference Protocol Questions- pick and choose what fits with the observation and a focus you feel your Teacher Candidate could use in their future teaching.
- Collaborative Discussion Outline- This outline was modified to fit OSU-Cascades and the CBEE programs here at OSU-C from the Oregon Department of Education.
- Mentoring Language Chart- Oregon Department of Education mentoring document that helps create common language around mentoring and communicating feedback to the Teacher Candidate.