Teaching Triangles
Are you interested in gaining new insights into your teaching through a non-evaluative process of reciprocal classroom observation and self-reflection? If so, we invite you to join the Teaching Triangles program.
Program Overview
The Teaching Triangles program involves faculty members in a square who agree to visit
each other’s classes over the semester and meet to discuss what they have learned
about their own teaching from the observations. The process is non-evaluative and
is based on reciprocity, shared responsibility, and mutual respect. Modeled after
the program developed by Anne Wessely of St. Louis Community College, the focus is
on self-reflection, rather than peer evaluation, critique, or providing feedback or
advice about their teaching. Partners observe each other to gather ideas on different
teaching approaches that might be used in their own classes.
This is an opportunity for faculty members to learn from each other’s teaching practices
in a respectful and supportive environment. As partners observe each other's teaching,
they will reflect on and later dialog with each other on questions such as: Could
I do something like that? Would that approach work with the content I teach? I might
be able to use that, but what would I need to change so that it better fits with my
teaching style? Are my students ready for a strategy like that? The intent of the
Teaching Squares program is to help you contemplate current teaching practices as
you consider some potential alternatives.
Program Expectations
Participants in the program can expect to spend approximately 5 to 6 hours over the semester doing the following:
- Attend an initial in-person meeting early in the semester to discuss logistics and establish expectations. (1 hour)
- Observe at least one class session of each of the faculty partners (3+ hours)
- Provide syllabi and other relevant information about the classes that partners will be visiting
- Attend a wrap-up meeting towards the end of the semester to share reflections and insights (1 hours).
Benefits
Participating in Teaching Triangles provides you the opportunity to:
- See and celebrate good teaching in action
- Build community with colleagues in different disciplines who share your passion for teaching
- Enhance your own teaching practices
Who is eligible?
This opportunity is open to all faculty (including adjunct professors) at West Chester University. There is no limit to the number of semesters a faculty may participate.
Registration
If you are interested in participating in this program, please complete the Teaching Triangles Registration Form by August, 2026. You will be notified of your acceptance and square assignment by September 1.
If you have any questions about the program, please contact the TLC at tlc@wcupa.edu.