Who Can Start Observations
Coaches, principals, and assistant principals can start observations (Observer, Organization Manager, or Observation Manager role). The Start Observation button appears in the top navigation bar for anyone with observation creation permissions. If you do not see the button, ask your administrator to verify your role includes the Observer permission.
Starting an Observation from the Navigation Bar
The primary way to start an observation is from the Start Observation button in the top-right area of the navigation bar. This button has a play icon and is always available regardless of which page you are on.
Click Start Observation in the navigation bar
A dropdown menu appears showing your published observation forms. You can type in the search field to filter forms by name.
Select a form from the list. You will be taken to the New Observation page.
On the New Observation page, you will see the form name displayed at the top and a prompt that says "Please select a teacher to continue."
In the Teacher dropdown, start typing a teacher's name to search. Select an existing teacher from the list.
If the teacher has not been added yet, type their full name. An + Add Teacher option will appear at the bottom of the dropdown. Click it to create the teacher and select them in one step.
Click Continue to create the observation and begin filling out the form.
You will be taken to the observation page where the form is loaded and ready to fill out. The observation starts with an Open status.
If you change your mind, click Cancel to return to the Observations page without creating anything.
Starting an Observation from the Scheduler
If an observation has been scheduled in advance, you can start it directly from the Scheduler:
Navigate to the Scheduler page
Find the scheduled observation on the calendar
Click on the scheduled event to begin the observation
This pre-populates the form and teacher based on what was scheduled.
Tips
Choose the right form before starting. The form determines the questions, sections, and element types available during the observation. If you are unsure which form to use, check with your instructional leadership team.
Verify the teacher selection. The observee is set when you create the observation and can be updated later from the sidebar, but it is best to select the correct teacher upfront.
Make sure you have connectivity. Observation responses are saved as you go, so a stable internet connection ensures nothing is lost.
Start from anywhere. Because the Start Observation button lives in the navigation bar, you can begin an observation from any page in Aprenta -- you do not need to navigate to a specific section first.