Pedagogical Peer Coaching: Strengthening Teaching and Learning Practices

Pedagogical peer coaching is a collaborative approach that supports educators in improving teaching quality and learning outcomes. Through observation, feedback, and reflective dialogue, teachers share best practices, strengthen instructional strategies, and foster continuous professional growth. This process encourages a culture of trust and collaboration, enabling educators to address classroom challenges effectively while enhancing student engagement, achievement, and overall educational excellence.

Pedagogical Peer Coaching, often known as PPC, plays a vital role in faculty development by giving educators a safe, confidential environment to sharpen their teaching skills. It creates space for growth through classroom observations, meaningful conversations, and faculty-led learning groups, all without the stress of formal assessments or institutional hierarchy. By welcoming fresh viewpoints and constructive feedback, this collaborative model becomes a powerful driver of effective teaching and richer learning experiences.

Teaching is widely regarded as one of the most fulfilling professions. Guiding students through their learning journeys and witnessing those sudden “aha” moments is deeply rewarding. Yet, behind the scenes, teaching can feel surprisingly isolating. Designing lessons, assessments, and activities often happens alone, with educators left to imagine how students will respond. That sense of solitude can deepen when student evaluations don’t reflect the effort invested. Pedagogical peer coaching exists to counter this isolation, reminding educators that teaching is not meant to be a solo endeavor.

A pedagogical peer coach supports both new and experienced colleagues across every stage of teaching, from reflection to classroom action. At the conceptual level, coaches help educators clarify their teaching philosophy and define the values that guide their approach. Strategically, they assist with course redesigns, learning outcomes, and assessment planning. On a practical level, conversations may focus on subject-specific methods or the integration of digital tools. In real classroom situations, PPCs help navigate challenges, boost student engagement, and design meaningful learning activities. Throughout this process, the coach acts as a trusted critical friend, guiding improvement by asking thoughtful questions rather than prescribing solutions.

Classroom observation is one of the most common starting points for peer coaching conversations. While being observed can feel uncomfortable and even intimidating, the purpose is never judgment. There is an important difference between criticism and critique, and PPCs operate firmly in the latter space. They do not evaluate performance or dictate changes. Instead, they offer an objective learner’s perspective, helping educators identify opportunities for growth. These observations consistently spark new ideas and benefit both the observer and the teacher, making them a shared learning experience rather than a one-sided review.

Pedagogical peer coaches are sometimes mistaken for pedagogical counsellors, but the two roles are fundamentally different. Counsellors typically hold institutional positions and help shape policies, frameworks, and evaluation systems. They may be required to assess teaching and are often assigned to faculty. PPCs, on the other hand, are peers, not evaluators. Their support is entirely voluntary, free from reporting obligations, and completely confidential. This independence allows educators to speak openly and experiment freely without fear of repercussions.

Collaboration lies at the heart of successful peer coaching. While PPCs are experienced educators, coaching requires more than years in the classroom. Coaches undergo dedicated training in pedagogy and coaching methods, learning how to listen actively, address resistance, distinguish between surface issues and deeper needs, and encourage reflective thinking. At institutions such as EHL Hospitality Business School, PPCs also contribute to faculty development initiatives, host drop-in sessions, support communities of practice, and help create self-evaluation tools that strengthen teaching culture.

For a PPC system to thrive, strong institutional backing is essential. Support from faculty development teams helps raise visibility and sustain momentum. Equally important is faculty trust and engagement. When educators understand that peer coaching is confidential, supportive, and designed for everyone, not just those facing difficulties, the system truly flourishes.

Whether seeking feedback on a new idea, guidance on digital course materials, or inspiration from observing a colleague in action, educators can turn to PPCs for support. At EHL Hospitality Business School, this commitment to peer support reflects the same values taught to students: excellence in human interaction, collaboration, and continuous improvement, all in service of delivering outstanding learning experiences.

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Source: EHL‍