Peer Observation: A Professional Learning Tool for English Language Teachers in an EFL Institute

Abstract

The key aim of this study is to explore the perceptions of English as foreign language (EFL) teachers about peerobservation as a tool for professional development that is implemented in an English Language Institute of a SaudiArabian university. This paper reviews literature on peer observation to develop a conceptual and theoreticalunderstanding of peer observation systems in different contexts. It utilizes a mix-method approach and applies aquestionnaire and semi-structured interviews as data collection tools. Questionnaire is used to get information aboutEFL teachers’ perceptions whereas semi-structured interviews provide an insight into their practices in the form ofpeer observation and future amendments for PD. The participants share their lived experiences who consider thecurrent practice of peer observation a consistent professional challenge due to several factors, i.e. their lack ofautonomy in deciding about the peers, trust deficit between administration and EFL teachers, rarely heldpre-observation conferences due to the loads of teaching hours, observers’ insufficient training and qualifications inconducting PO, and the element of threat and insecurity. Based on the findings, recommendations are made toimprove the existing peer observation system for the benefit of the EFL teachers, English language learners and theinstitute.