Walkthrough Forms
Project CHOICES developed walkthrough forms for schools and
districts to measure the progress of implementation of new skills
and knowledge to benefit all students. Consultants collaborate with
school and district staff on how to conduct walkthroughs and use
walkthrough data to improve instruction for all students. The
walkthrough forms can be accessed here.
For more information on walkthroughs, please click on the links
to the following articles.
http://www.principalspartnership.com/feature203.html
http://www.education-world.com/a_admin/admin/admin405.shtml
What is a walkthrough?
A walkthrough is a reflective practice in which a classroom is
visited for short amounts of time (approx. 15 minutes) periodically
throughout the year. The observer(s) collect anecdotal data related
to a targeted inclusive practice. Walkthroughs may be used as a
vehicle for ongoing professional development, guiding teachers to
reflect on their strengths and potential areas for growth.
Walkthroughs are not intended to be a part of the formal teacher
evaluation procedure.
Who should conduct walkthroughs?
It is recommended that teams of two work together to conduct the
walkthroughs. Team members could include but are not limited to the
following: administrator, coordinator, teacher, Project CHOICES
representative, etc. An individual may also conduct
walkthroughs.
How often should walkthroughs occur?
Walkthroughs should be scheduled periodically throughout the
school year. Quarterly visits or more often, are recommended.
What is the procedure for a walkthrough?
NOTE: Before conducting a walkthrough, it is recommended that
teachers be given a copy of the checklist(s) so that they may
become familiar with the indicators. In some cases teachers may be
involved in amending or revising the checklist to reflect their
particular needs.
Team members:
- Visit the classroom together for approximately 15 minutes.
- Record anecdotal data related to the checklist indicators.
- Meet briefly after the visit to discuss the observations and
complete the checklist together.
- Determine one area of strength (a WOW!) and one potential area
for further exploration (a Wonder) related to the targeted
practice. Example:
WOW: Both teachers modeled respectful language to each other and
to the students.
Wonder: What are some of the strategies that you use or could use
to meet the needs of the tactile kinesthetic learners in your
class?
- Decide how and when to provide feedback to the teachers. It is
recommended that feedback be provided within 24 hours of the
walkthrough. Possible formats might include:
- Quick note
- Email message
- Brief (5 min.) face-to-face conversation (5 min.) Additionally,
it is suggested that a quick note be provided.
- Summarize the WOW and Wonder in the selected feedback format
and share with the observed teachers.