Peers Observing Peers: Exploring Cross

While observing exemplary in-service teachers is important, researchers suggest there may be benefits to observing peers as well. Much of the peer observation literature is focused on the process of peers observing peers in the same institution. The authors of this study brought together undergraduate music education peers from two separate institutions to observe and discuss music teaching and learning via videoconferencing software. Using qualitative analysis techniques, we identified three emergent themes: (a) technology as a tool for diverse experiences, (b) self-reflection and questioning assumptions, and (c) evolving issues of identity. Participants believed the experience was uniquely valuable when compared with traditional observations of peers within their own institutions. While all participants reported growth in self-awareness and ability to question assumptions, those who were observed developed stronger teacher identities and those who were observing learned vicariously through peers they wished to emulate