The article deals with modern approaches to English classroom observation which plays a fundamental role in the improvement of teaching and learning a foreign language. Helping novice EFL teachers through the intricate process of observation during the students’ teaching practice can be a challenging task. It should be properly organized as it is widely acknowledged as indispensable in preparing pre-service teachers for their future professional activity. Observation of classroom performance is viewed from the ‘cyclical model of lesson observation’ which consists of three stages: the pre-observation meeting; observation of the lesson and post-observation discussion. The tasks for the observers are specified for each stage. The authors suggest using ‘Your Smart Observation App’ worked out by them to modernize the process of observation with technologies which can turn it into an inspiring and motivating students’ professional learning opportunity. The App contains a number of templates for lesson observation designed according to the domains: ‘Classroom Environment’, ‘Instruction’, ‘Self-Reflection’ and ‘Resources’. The notions of «general observation» and «focused observation» are distinguished for the observation stage. Examples of observation templates are suggested for evaluating the performance of student teachers. They have common basis for discussion at the post-observation stage and can help the students concentrate on some particular aspects of the lesson. Special attention is paid to correlation between observation and the development of professional reflection skills in the post-observation discussion. Classroom observation ensures student teachers gain a better understanding of their teaching through self-reflection or reflection in small groups. Reflection skills may be highly beneficial for the students during the teaching practice as they are used for sharing their professional experience and participating in discussions. Classroom observation offers student teachers reflective opportunities for personal growth and continuous professional development.
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