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

8-30-2012

Number of Students Present: 16

Special Topics (Biology 642): Designer Proteins & Society Crystal Proteins
Very Poor Very Good

Poor

Fair

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 very well organized and well paced. Dr. Shaffer gave a comprehensive recap of the previous lecture where they discussed the properties of proteins. Dr. Shaffer asked, If you were describing a protein to someone, what would you say about it? The students wrote their answers down and they went over them as a class and emphasized some general properties that all proteins possess. This exercise provided a transition to the topic of the day which was crystal proteins. Overall the students were engaged and seemed very interested in the course. The interaction between Dr. Shaffer and the students seemed very organic and natural.

Specific Suggestions for Improvement (at least one): While the classroom was a small to medium space, there existed a background hum in the room which sometimes drowned out Dr. Shaffers voice. While he did move from the front to the back of the room, sometimes when he was in the front it was a little difficult to hear in the back. Therefore, I would say for Dr. Shaffer to be fully aware of things such as background noise and how he can use his diction or greater projection to overcome this minor issue. Sometimes minor issues such as background noise or the simple placement of the lecture podium or even the size of the room where the course is being held can provide some unique challenges and distractions. There were a few students talking in the back of the room periodically and it probably was difficult for Dr. Shaffer to hear them since there was this persistent hum in the room
Very Poor Poor Fair Good Very Good Excellent

OVERALL EVALUATION: (select one)

Have you discussed this evaluation with your SPIRE Fellow?

Yes

Not Yet

O
Last revised March 16, 2009