Materials
Materials:
Guide to Peer Observation
Peer observation is a key element of tutor qualification at JLU Giessen. By visiting and observing tutorials, tutors can gather valuable practical experience and develop a deeper awareness of their own strengths and weaknesses in teaching. There are two types of observation: In peer observation, two tutors visit each other's sessions, while in expert observation, an experienced teacher visits the tutorial.
Practice Coaching Guide
The "Practice Coaching" at JLU Giessen uses the method of "Collegial Practice Counselling”. In this, groups of tutors come together to identify and discuss emerging challenges from their teaching practice. Initially, current problems are collected and selected. The selected case is then described in detail, followed by a question phase to clarify the problem further. Subsequently, hypotheses about possible causes are formulated. During a discussion round, solutions are developed. In conclusion, the person who brought up the problem provides feedback on the discussed solution approaches and insights.
Toolkit for Tutors
The “Toolkit for Tutors” is a practical collection of teaching methods intended to help tutors make their sessions both productive and varied. The document offers a variety of strategies and techniques to enhance the learning process and foster student engagement.
Learning Objective Formulation
The formulation of teaching/learning objectives in courses is crucial as they provide clarity and direction for the entire educational process. They serve not only as a guiding compass for the teacher in structuring content and methods but also help students understand the purpose and benefit of learning, thereby increasing their motivation. These clear objectives also provide a solid foundation for assessment and feedback, which contributes to quality assurance and continuous improvement of the course. By openly communicating the learning objectives from the beginning, misunderstandings are avoided and a common understanding between teachers and students is created, enhancing the effectiveness of the entire teaching process.
Schedule Plan
A schedule plan for the planning of a course serves as a structured overview of the planned content and activities. It enables the effective use of time, ensures that all important topics are covered, and makes the learning process coherent and comprehensible for students.
Portfolio and Reflection
A learning diary and reflection are essential tools for effective learning. They deepen what is learned by anchoring it in memory and help to link theories with practical experience. By documenting their progress and challenges, learners not only gain self-confidence but also develop a better understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses. This promotes critical thinking and encourages metacognition – reflecting on one's own learning. Additionally, a learning diary serves as a platform for emotional processing, supports overcoming learning blocks, and continually improves one's own learning process. Overall, these practices can help to fully exploit individual learning potential.
Reflection Tool: Intercultural Awareness
Cultural reflection is a powerful tool for fostering cross-cultural understanding. By delving into our own core values, we can gain insights into the drivers behind our own actions and decisions, often uncovering hidden beliefs and patterns of behavior. This can help to prevent potential misunderstandings and conflicts, promoting more meaningful and respectful interactions in our diverse world.