PURPOSE/CHARTER

The purpose of this policy is to establish a structured, supportive, and constructive peer evaluation system for faculty, designed to enhance teaching effectiveness and promote professional growth. Peer evaluations are intended to be formative, collegial, and reflective, fostering a culture of continuous instructional improvement.

POLICY

Peer evaluation is a vital component of the faculty development process at Zane State College. All full-time and part-time faculty are eligible to participate in peer evaluations, which are conducted in a collegial spirit and aligned with institutional teaching standards. Evaluations focus on instructional effectiveness and are designed to support teaching excellence and reflective practice.

SCOPE/POLICY GUIDELINES

This policy applies to all full-time and part-time faculty members engaged in credit-bearing instruction at Zane State College.

Evaluation Frequency:

• Conducted based on faculty request, professional development plans, or at the discretion of the Dean or designee.

Evaluation Components:

• Classroom Observation: At least one scheduled classroom session using a standardized form.
• Review of Course Materials: Includes syllabi, assessments, assignments, and other teaching artifacts.
• Student Feedback Summary (optional): Faculty may provide summaries of student surveys.

• Self-Reflection: A brief narrative from the faculty member regarding teaching goals and practices.
• Written Peer Report: A summary prepared by the evaluator with suggestions for growth.

Evaluation Process:

1. Evaluator Selection: Faculty may choose a peer within their department or request a Dean-appointed evaluator.
2. Pre-Observation Meeting: Discuss teaching goals, course context, and areas of focus.
3. Observation: Peer attends a scheduled class session.
4. Post-Observation Meeting: Feedback is discussed in a follow-up meeting.
5. Written Report: Submitted by the evaluator and optionally shared with the Dean or designee.
6. Faculty Response (Optional): Faculty may respond in writing to the report.

Confidentiality:

• All materials are confidential and shared only with the faculty member, evaluator, and academic leadership unless otherwise authorized.

Use in Evaluation:

• Peer evaluations are primarily developmental. They may also be used in promotion, tenure, or reappointment decisions as outlined in other institutional policies.

Support and Training:

• Zane State College will provide resources and training on effective peer observation, feedback delivery, and reflective teaching practices.

NON-COMPLIANCE

Participation in peer evaluation is encouraged as a professional development activity. In cases where peer evaluation is required as part of an institutional plan or performance improvement process, non-compliance may be addressed through consultation with academic leadership referenced in faculty performance reviews.

Violations of this policy will be treated like other allegations of wrongdoing. Allegations of misconduct will be adjudicated according to established procedures. Sanctions for misconduct or violations of this policy may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following:

1. Oral and/or written warning.
2. Probation, suspension, or termination of employment.
3. Legal action according to applicable laws and contractual agreements.