Bridging the Gap in Observations: Moving from the 'WHAT' to the 'HOW'

Observations are a key part of professional development in education. They highlight areas for improvement and provide teachers with feedback on their practice. However, one common challenge is that most observations focus on the ​‘WHAT’ — what needs to improve — without addressing the ​‘HOW’ — how to make those improvements. 

This leaves teachers in a difficult position. They know where they need to develop, but without clear, practical strategies, progress can be slow or inconsistent. They may receive well-meaning feedback such as, ​“Make your questioning more effective” or ​“Encourage more student engagement.” But without actionable guidance, teachers are left to figure out solutions on their own, often leading to frustration and limited change in practice.

To truly support teachers, observations need to go beyond simply identifying areas for improvement. They need to offer a clear path forward — a ​‘HOW.’ This is where the HOW2 Platform comes in. Colleges that partner with us can integrate HOW2 into their observation process, ensuring that feedback is not only constructive but also practical.

The HOW2 Platform provides step-by-step, visual guides to a wide range of evidence-based teaching techniques. Instead of just telling teachers what they need to improve, observers can use the platform to recommend specific strategies that align with their feedback.

For example:

• If an observer identifies that a teacher needs to improve questioning techniques, they can direct them to structured questioning methods on HOW2.

• If engagement is an issue, the teacher can be nudged towards interactive strategies that encourage participation.

• If lesson clarity needs work, the platform offers techniques for breaking down complex concepts effectively.

Through the platform’s ​‘nudge’ feature, teachers receive targeted recommendations that they can explore at their own pace. They’re not left guessing or searching for solutions — they have immediate access to structured, easy-to-follow techniques. 

Now, with the recent addition of the HOW2 AI Assistant, this support has become even more dynamic. Fully integrated with the platform’s 160 visual guides, the AI Assistant provides real-time, context-aware guidance, helping teachers tailor techniques to their specific subjects and lesson topics with even greater precision. 

By integrating HOW2 into observations, colleges can transform their professional development process. Teachers receive not just areas for improvement but also the tools to make those improvements. This creates a more supportive and effective learning environment for both teachers and students.

Some key benefits include:

• Clearer, more actionable feedback – Teachers know exactly how to address areas for improvement.

• Greater confidence in applying new strategies – The visual guides make implementation straightforward.

• More effective professional development – Observations become a catalyst for real, measurable change rather than just an evaluation exercise.

Observations should be more than just an identification of gaps; they should be a bridge to better teaching. Providing the ​‘WHAT’ without the ​‘HOW’ limits progress, but with the HOW2 Platform, colleges can ensure that teachers receive the guidance they need to develop and thrive. 

By using observations as a tool for continuous learning rather than just assessment, we can build a stronger, more effective teaching workforce — ultimately leading to better outcomes for students.

For more information on integrating HOW2 into your observation process, visit TeachingHOW2s.