Learning Walk
A Learning Walk is a common practice in schools where education leaders briefly visit multiple classrooms to observe teaching and learning. Unlike formal evaluations, these are short, informal visits (usually 5-15 minutes) meant to help understand how teaching is happening across the school. Think of it like taking a quick tour to get a big-picture view of classroom activities, teaching methods, and student engagement. School principals, instructional coaches, and teacher leaders use Learning Walks to spot patterns, share best practices, and guide professional development needs.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted weekly Learning Walks to support teacher development and improve instruction
Led Learning Walk teams to gather data on student engagement practices
Implemented Learning Walk protocols to enhance classroom observation and feedback
Typical job title: "Instructional Coaches"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Instructional Coaches
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Administrative Level Questions
Q: How would you design and implement a Learning Walk system across multiple grade levels?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating observation schedules, developing feedback forms, training other observers, and using data to improve teaching practices school-wide.
Q: How do you use Learning Walk data to inform professional development planning?
Expected Answer: Should explain collecting and analyzing observation data, identifying common areas for improvement, and creating targeted professional development programs based on findings.
Experienced Level Questions
Q: What elements do you look for during a Learning Walk?
Expected Answer: Should mention student engagement, teaching strategies, classroom management, learning objectives, and evidence of student understanding.
Q: How do you provide constructive feedback after a Learning Walk?
Expected Answer: Should discuss sharing observations respectfully, focusing on specific examples, and offering actionable suggestions for improvement.
Entry Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between a Learning Walk and a formal observation?
Expected Answer: Should explain that Learning Walks are brief, informal, and non-evaluative, while formal observations are longer and part of teacher evaluation.
Q: How do you prepare for conducting a Learning Walk?
Expected Answer: Should mention reviewing observation forms, understanding what to look for, and following school protocols for classroom visits.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic classroom observation techniques
- Understanding of effective teaching practices
- Note-taking during observations
- Following observation protocols
Mid (2-5 years)
- Providing constructive feedback
- Data collection and analysis
- Identifying teaching patterns
- Supporting teacher growth
Senior (5+ years)
- Developing observation systems
- Training other observers
- Leading professional development
- Program evaluation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No classroom teaching experience
- Lack of understanding of different teaching methods
- Poor communication or feedback skills
- Unable to maintain confidentiality
- No experience with data collection or analysis
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Future-Proof Your Workforce: Embracing Lifelong Learning
Micro-Internships: The Game-Changer in Project-Based Learning
Unlock Hidden Talent: How Internal Rotation Programs Spark Career Exploration and Boost Retention
