Walkthrough Tools

Here is a list of walkthrough tools available for the iPad.  Many of these applications have android, netbook/laptop, and iphone options available. 

• iWalkObservation is the tool that I am currently using.  It is created by a principal, and he is quick to support his product.  Several tools come with the standard application, however districts/schools can request custom options for a fee.  The product I purchased was $79 dollars and requires that the user have Filemaker Go.
• eCOVE is another tool that has been around for a long time.  I have known principals that have used the laptop version in the past.  It has a long history, however I have not used to product myself.  If any readers have used it, please post a comment.  This program cost $299 and does offer discounts for larger purchases.
• Teachscape is available in the app store for free, but I believe you have to observe or attend a seminar to actually access and store walkthrough data.  It is not a bad idea to consider the cost of professional development when purchasing a program.  I am unsure of the cost of this application. 
• GoObserve is available on the app store for a free trial, but the full cost is $149.95 to purchase.  I have very little knowledge of the program.
• Observation 360 is another product that displays as a free app, but a subscription must be purchased to use the product. 

It is clear that there are several products out there, but knowing which one to purchase can be a daunting task.  If you have used one of these products, please post comments/reviews...or, if you know of another product, please post about it in the comments. 

At this time, I am not aware of a quality product that is free.  If you have an Apple computer and Filemaker Go, the following link will direct you toward a precreated sheet that might meet your needs.

Getting Started

I am a third year elementary principal in a school of almost 600 students.  Like most, I believe that the most important thing I can do is be in classrooms observing instruction and interacting with students.  The best discussions I have with teachers about student learning happen because of being in the classroom and having a conversation about the learning that has taken place.  However, starting that conversation can be difficult.  Here are some tips and ideas for classroom walkthroughs based on my experiences...please feel free to respond by adding your thoughts, challenging mine, or asking questions.

1. Just do it!  First, get out of your office and visit classrooms.  Even if you have no formal observation tool or schedule.  Just like eating right or working out, you first have to just start the process.  If you wait until the perfect moment, you will never start.
2. Look for positives.  If you have not been in classrooms on a regular basis in the past, it is important to develop trust with your staff that you are not out looking for something wrong.  Bring note cards or sticky notes and point out something positive. 
3. Let your staff know what you will be looking for as you do your walk-abouts.  Once you have started getting out on a regular basis, create or find a walkthrough tool that gives them an idea of what you are looking for when you visit.  I use iwalkobservation for the iPad.  This tool has several pre-created tools to use and sends an email to the teacher before you even leave the class. 
4. When I use my observation tool, I tend to ask reflective questions instead of pointing out concerns (however, there are times that certain issues need immediate direction).  I have already let my staff know that they do not have to answer the quesitons, they are just reflective.  Also, I remind them that I am in the classroom for only a portion of the lesson, so I realize that my question is a result of a limited observation...but it is still a thought, so they can respond if they want.  I have had the best discussions in response to these reflective quesitons. 

This is not complete list of what a walkthrough entails...like how often, how long, or other walkthrough tools.  If you have tips or tools you use for providing feedback, please share them.