Knowledge/Skill Building

Observation Walks and Field Notes Practice

Students conduct a guided observation in a campus or community space to notice behaviors and contexts. They record field notes and share initial patterns with a partner.

Plan day
Day 6
Duration
60 min
Grouping
Steps
5 steps

Lesson plan

5 steps · 60 min
# What teachers do
1 Introduction to Observation Walks (5 min)
2 Explain Field Notes Purpose and Format (5 min)
3 Observation Walk Instructions (10 min)
4 Conduct Observation Walk (15 min)
5 Field Notes Sharing and Pattern Discussion with Partner (10 min)
Preparation (3 items)
  • Choose a location on campus or community space that encourages diverse observations.
  • Prepare examples of field notes and observation patterns to share with students.
  • Ensure students have notebooks and pens for taking field notes.
Student-facing instructions
Your task is to engage in an observation walk at a given location to notice behaviors, settings, and interactions. During the walk, take detailed field notes focusing on specific elements like interactions and environment. Afterwards, you'll share your field notes with a partner and identify initial patterns or insights.