Chapter 12: Observing Without Bias
When you observe without bias, you uncover insights that would otherwise remain hidden. You set aside assumptions about “effective” teaching styles and focus on what’s actually happening in the classroom. Instead of interpreting a quiet moment as disengagement, you ask open-ended questions: What challenge are students facing? What might they need? This neutral stance allows you to gather accurate data and understand root causes.
To practice unbiased observation, you might use silent walkthroughs paired with reflective prompts. Encourage educators to note what they see without labeling it as “good” or “bad.” Later, in collaborative discussions, teachers share observations and collectively interpret patterns. Over time, this process builds a shared vocabulary for data-driven conversations—free from anecdotal bias and front-loaded judgments.