Photo: ELI
Every semester, ELI classes are observed by a number of people, including ELI administrative staff, ELI teachers, students in the Department of Second Language Studies, and other visiting language professionals.
Because the number of requests for observations of ELI classes is so large, we have had to set a limit on the number of times any one class section can be observed. Currently, the limit is four (4) class sessions. If the class you would like to observe already has four observations reserved (or completed), you will need to find another class to observe.
Peer Observations by Other ELI Teachers
All ELI Teachers are required, every semester, to observe a minimum of two other teachers (preferably in the ELI, but observations of others are possible with approval from the ELI Director). Prior to observing, we strongly recommend that you review the Guidelines and Etiquette for Observers of ELI Classes.
Other Visitors to ELI Classes
Before approaching an ELI teacher, or the ELI Director, to ask about observing ELI classes, it’s important to determine the purpose of your observation. Is it for research purposes, or is it truly just an observation? It is assumed that, if this is just an observation, any recordings or notes taken will not be used for research and will not be made public in any form. Otherwise, it is considered a research project, and in these cases, you need to follow different procedures, as shown on Policies and Procedures for Conducting Research in the ELI.
If your observation is not for research purposes, follow these steps:
- Contact ELI Director Priscilla Faucette (faucette@) for recommendations.
- Read the Guidelines and Etiquette for Observers of ELI Classes.
- Contact one of the teachers recommended by Priscilla to get permission to observe their class. Be sure to explain the purpose of your visit.
- If you have any questions, contact Priscilla.