Teachers’ Views on the Conduct of Class Observation: The Philippine DepEd Setting

Abstract

The Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated the need to conduct class observations to help ensure the delivery of quality basic education to all learners. It developed the Results-Based Performance Management System (RPMS) Manual for Teachers and School Heads, aligned with the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers (PPST). The manual provides school heads and other raters with a detailed reference to help understand the tools and the different phases of assessment within the various cycles of RPMS, ensuring that mechanisms are in place to support teacher performance (DepEd, 2018). It is on this premise that this study is conducted. Primarily, it aimed to ascertain the elementary teachers’ views on the conduct of the class observations. Likewise, it also identified the factors necessary for the smooth conduct of the class observations. This study utilized the case study research design. It involved eighteen (18) elementary teacher participants and three (3) school principals, utilizing a purposive sampling design. The interview guide was used to gather the data, which was analyzed using the Collaizzi’s method. The study found that the elementary teachers’ views are characterized as systemic and observer expertise. The factors necessary for the smooth conduct of the class observations are: (1) observe honesty, confidentiality, and collegiality; (2) provide actionable feedback; and (3) support productive collaboration among teachers. Future researchers may duplicate this study on a national scale to validate the study’s findings.