Effective Learning Environments
Observation Tool® (eleot® 2.0)
Purpose: The purpose of this tool is to help you identify and document observable evidence of classroom environments
that are conducive to student learning. Circle the number that corresponds with your observation of each learning
environment item descriptor. As needed and appropriate, make inquiries with learners.
Date:______________________________________________________ Grade Level(s):_____________________________________________
School:_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City / State / Province:_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Country:________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Time In:____________________________________________________ Time Out:_________________________________________________
Check ALL that apply: m Lesson Beginning m Lesson Middle m Lesson End
Instructor Name:_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Subject Observed:________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Observer Name:__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
VERY SOMEWHAT NOT
EVIDENT EVIDENT EVIDENT OBSERVED
A. Equitable Learning Environment:
1. Learners engage in differentiated learning opportunities and/or activities that
meet their needs
2. Learners have equal access to classroom discussions, activities, resources,
technology, and support
3. Learners are treated in a fair, clear and consistent manner
4. Learners demonstrate and/or have opportunities to develop empathy/respect/
appreciation for differences in abilities, aptitudes, backgrounds, cultures,
and/or other human characteristics, conditions and dispositions
B. High Expectations Environment:
1. Learners strive to meet or are able to articulate the high expectations established by
themselves and/or the teacher
2. Learners engage in activities and learning that are challenging but attainable
3. Learners demonstrate and/or are able to describe high quality work
4. Learners engage in rigorous coursework, discussions, and/or tasks that require the
use of higher order thinking (e.g., analyzing, applying, evaluating, synthesizing)
5. Learners take responsibility for and are self-directed in their learning
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VERY SOMEWHAT NOT
EVIDENT EVIDENT EVIDENT OBSERVED
C. Supportive Learning Environment:
1. Learners demonstrate a sense of community that is positive, cohesive, engaged,
and purposeful
2. Learners take risks in learning (without fear of negative feedback)
3. Learners are supported by the teacher, their peers and/or other resources to
understand content and accomplish tasks
4. Learners demonstrate a congenial and supportive relationship with their teacher
D. Active Learning Environment:
1. Learners’ discussions/dialogues/exchanges with each other and the teacher predominate
2. Learners make connections from content to real-life experiences
3. Learners are actively engaged in the learning activities
4. Learners collaborate with their peers to accomplish/complete projects, activities,
tasks and/or assignments
E. Progress Monitoring and Feedback Environment:
1. Learners monitor their own learning progress or have mechanisms whereby
their learning progress is monitored
2. Learners receive/respond to feedback (from teachers/peers/other resources)
to improve understanding and/or revise work
3. Learners demonstrate and/or verbalize understanding of the lesson/content
4. Learners understand and/or are able to explain how their work is assessed
F. Well-Managed Learning Environment:
1. Learners speak and interact respectfully with teacher(s) and each other
2. Learners demonstrate knowledge of and/or follow classroom rules and behavioral
expectations and work well with others
3. Learners transition smoothly and efficiently from one activity to another
4. Learners use class time purposefully with minimal wasted time or disruptions
G. Digital Learning Environment:
1. Learners use digital tools/technology to gather, evaluate, and/or use information
for learning
2. Learners use digital tools/technology to conduct research, solve problems, and/or
create original works for learning
3. Learners use digital tools/technology to communicate and/or work collaboratively
for learning
Notes (Attach another sheet for notes as necessary)
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