Evaluation of a pilot peer observation of teaching scheme for chair-side tutors at Glasgow University Dental School.

Aim: To introduce and examine a pilot peer observation of teaching (POT) scheme within the Department of Paediatric Dentistry at Glasgow Dental School and its associated outreach centres.

Methods: All tutors teaching paediatric dentistry were invited to be involved in evaluation of the POT scheme. Participants were randomly paired with a peer, who then observed their teaching and provided constructive feedback. For those consenting to be involved in the evaluation of the scheme, semi-structured, one-to-one interviews were carried out by the principal investigator.

Results: POT was found by all participants to be a beneficial process, reassuring those of their teaching styles and giving them ideas to adapt their teaching.

Conclusion: POT is an effective method for engaging chair-side tutors in the reflection and development of their teaching practice via observations and scholarly discussion.