Observation Guide:
​Collaborative Approach to
​Teaching Observations (CATO)

Observing a lesson episode, gathering data and discussing the data can powerfully improve practice. 

CATO – in class protocol

1. Have an agreed focus (TO ENABLE DEEPER DISCUSSION)
2. Be silent during whole class instruction (TO DEEPLY WATCH)
3. Make detailed notes including transcript fragments (TO GATHER EVIDENCE)
4. Record examples of evidence of learning (TO FOCUS ON LEARNING)
5. Stay for the whole lesson (TO SUSPEND JUDGEMENT)
6. Circulate when student-centred activities occur (TO LOOK AT LEARNING PRODUCTS)
7. Ask students questions about the lesson, with permission of host teacher (TO PROBE LEARNING)

The CATO process is followed by a round table discussion.

This approach is process oriented to focus on three (or four) way conversations.
In the post-lesson round table discussion, turn-taking is essential so that everyone has opportunity to contribute.
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This project encourages a more than one person observer approach using one or more T3 tools in the same lesson.