Appendix H SPIRE Program Classroom Observation

Instructions: Please observe each SPIRE Fellow teach and complete this observation form in hard copy or electronically. Upon completion, please discuss with the Fellow and forward a copy of the form as an email attachment (lerea@unc.edu; brybar@unc.edu ) or by fax (919) 966-4010. If possible please try to conduct an initial classroom observation during the first month of the semester.

SPIRE Fellow: Date of Observation: Class Observed: Subject/Topic Covered:

Justin Shaffer

Faculty Observer:

Checo Rorie

3-13-12 Biology 100 Inheritance

Very Poor

Number of Students Present: 71

-46 students present/2 were 30min late

Poor

Fair

Good

Very Good

Excellent

a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h.

Development of topic Clarity of material presented Pace of delivery Level of student engagement Use of technology Knowledge of subject matter Classroom management Incorporation of current research topics during lecture

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5

6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

Summary: The lecture was excellent. The use of the examples in the lecture was great and did a good job in explaining dominant versus recessive traits. Many of the students participated in the call in phone polls and there was a few who were very enthusiastic participants in the classroom discussion and lecture. For a non-majors course the content was very precise and geared towards the students levels and interest in Biology. Dr. Shaffer did an excellent job in pointing out the big picture and global perspective of inheritance and its importance in diversity.

Specific Suggestions for Improvement (at least one): The auditorium where the classroom was held was big and tempting for Dr. Shaffer to physically be present in all areas of the auditorium. While well-intentioned, Dr. Shaffers use of the room seemed deliberate, but with time could become more naturally delivered. I would suggest that Dr. Shaffer focus his use of the auditorium towards the back of the room in order to engage more of the resistant students.

OVERALL EVALUATION: (select one)

Very Poor

Poor

Fair

Good

Very Good

Excellent

Have you discussed this evaluation with your SPIRE Fellow?

Yes

Not Yet

Last revised March 16, 2009