# Best Foot Forward: Video Observation Toolkit ### Best Foot Forward: Video Observation Toolkit This toolkit provides practical guidance for education practitioners on using video observations to help teachers accelerate their development. Inside, you will find four sections to help you start video observations in your school community. Each section includes a discussion of important lessons from the [Best Foot Forward](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/best-foot-forward-project) project, a study of digital video in classroom observations, and adaptable tools for implementation. [ Download the Full Toolkit arrow\_circle\_right ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/best-foot-forward-video-observation-toolkit) ![BFF Video Observation Toolkit](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2025-08/bff%20vot.jpg?itok=mMYwrDMd) ## What's Inside the Toolkit [### Leveraging Video for Learning: Strategies for Using Video Observations for Professional Growth ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/file_url/830)How can you employ video for teacher development? In this section you will find multiple models for using video, including self-reflection, peer collaboration, and coaching and evaluation. You will access research findings that demonstrate the promise of video technology to aid teacher innovation. ![Leveraging Video for Learning](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%202.36.21%20PM.png?itok=7ZaszcAq) [### Cultivating Trust in Video Observations: Considerations for Teacher and Student Privacy ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/file_url/831)There is strong public urgency around protecting the privacy of teachers and students. Here is a collection of resources to help institute trustworthy policies, communicate with parents, and protect those who are willing to use video to make a difference in classroom instruction. ![Cultivating Trust in Video Observations](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%202.37.46%20PM.png?itok=oCCj_m2i) [### Turnkey Technology: Recommendations for Setting up Schools for Effective Technology Implementation ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/file_url/832)Poor tools in the hands of the best-intentioned educators can stymie success. Good tools poorly implemented will have little benefit. Learn how to select the right hardware and software for your purposes and train educators to implement the process with parents, and protect those who are willing to use video to make a difference in classroom instruction. ![Turnkey Technology: Recommendations for Setting up Schools for Effective Technology Implementation](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%202.38.59%20PM.png?itok=nc5tH59U) [### Measuring Readiness and Success: A Guide to Piloting and Large-Scale Implementation ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/file_url/833)Is your school, state, or district ready for successful implementation? This section includes tools to gauge readiness and measure successful implementation. ![Measuring Readiness and Success: A Guide to Piloting and Large-Scale Implementation](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%202.39.49%20PM.png?itok=883kwxWa) ## Video Reflection Tools ![Video Self Analysis Rubric](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.00.25%20PM.png?itok=Xnddd5hW) [### Video Self Analysis Rubric ](/resource/best-foot-forward-video-self-analysis-rubric)A rubric to assess how successfully you are able to filter out noisy or distracting details and focus on your instructional practices during self-reflection. ![Teacher Video Selfie Module](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.03.12%20PM.png?itok=9egYMyXY) [### Self-Analysis Rubric ](/resource/video-self-analysis-rubric)A self-guided module for analyzing videos of your own instruction. ## Video Collaboration Tools ![Effects of a Video-Based Teacher Observation Program on the De-privatization of Instruction: Evidence from a Randomized Experiment David](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.05.40%20PM.png?itok=1e3TcqmP) [### Effects of a Video-Based Teacher Observation Program on the De-privatization of Instruction: Evidence from a Randomized Experiment ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/best-foot-forward-effects-video-based-teacher-observation-program-de-privatization)Research findings from the Best Foot Forward project regarding how video technology may be an effective tool for efforts to improve instruction by increasing peer observation and support. ![Video Club Start-Up Guide](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.15.28%20PM.png?itok=T5eTe0oq) [### Video Club Start-Up Guide ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/best-foot-forward-video-club-start-guide)Considerations to start building a video club in your school or district ![Rounds](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.20.22%20PM.png?itok=QdbZoJAb) [### Rounds: Puts Teachers in Charge of Learning ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/rounds-puts-teachers-charge-learning)A description of the protocol and requirements for the Teacher Rounds process ![Video Club Research: Teacher Participation](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.22.36%20PM_0.png?itok=kdx5N_cf) [### Video Club Research Summaries ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/video-club-research-summaries)Summaries of additional research about the use and structure of video clubs in schools across the country ## Remote Coaching Tools ![Coaching with Video Vignettes: Four Guided Noticing Techniques](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.28.38%20PM.png?itok=iRE4O6b3) [### Coaching with Video Vignettes: Four Guided Noticing Strategies ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/coaching-video-vignettes-four-guided-noticing-strategies)Four strategies to help teachers have an aha moment in virtual coaching experiences ![Coaching Tip: Dealing with Distractions While Using Video Models](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-13%20at%204.32.24%20PM.png?itok=RR99sCHZ) [### Coaching Tip: Dealing with Distractions While Using Video Models ](https://info.teachstone.com/blog/coaching-tip-dealing-with-distractions-in-the-class-video-library)Tips from a Teachstone blogger about focusing the feedback conversation while using video ![Helping Teachers See Themselves](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.22.12%20AM.png?itok=3ypPGDXz) [### Helping Teachers See Themselves ](https://tntp.org/blog/helping-teachers-see-themselves/)Reflections from TNTP on effective virtual coaching based on experience working with Best Foot Forward participants ![First Coaching Conversation](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.27.00%20AM_0.png?itok=5x_gJ1wT) [### Introductory Coaching Conversation Protocol ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/introductory-coaching-conversation-protocol)Tools for holding introductory and regular coaching conversations, courtesy of the MQI Coaching Project at the Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University ![Coaching Conversation Planning Guide](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.32.04%20AM.png?itok=C4NVJ00t) [### Coaching Conversation Planning Guide ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/coaching-conversation-planning-guide)Tools for holding introductory and regular coaching conversations, courtesy of the MQI Coaching Project at the Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University ![Collaborative Coaching Log](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.34.29%20AM_0.png?itok=4L7pGCBg) [### Collaborative Coaching Log ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/collaborative-coaching-log)Tools for holding introductory and regular coaching conversations, courtesy of the MQI Coaching Project at the Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University ![Vendors for Remote Coaching](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.37.32%20AM_0.png?itok=x8RCg6nK) [### Vendors for Remote Coaching ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/vendors-remote-coaching)A list of companies and organizations that provide remote coaching services for teachers. *\*Please note that this does not constitute an endorsement of any products or services.* ## Video Evaluation Tools ![First Year Implementation Report](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.46.23%20AM.png?itok=nwsdzm_s) [### The Best Foot Forward Project: Substituting Teacher-Collected Video for In-Person Classroom Observations ](/resource/best-foot-forward-project-substituting-teacher-collected-video-person-classroom)Information about the Best Foot Forward project and how video stacked up against in-person observations in an evaluation system regarding both improvements and challenges ![Power of Shared Evidence](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.50.13%20AM.png?itok=gMObd-Ut) [### The Power of Shared Evidence ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/power-shared-evidence)PowerPoint presentation from the Best Foot Forward project focusing on the mechanisms by which video improves the feedback conversation in an evaluation ![Fairness and Authenticity in Teacher-Initiated Classroom Observations](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.53.07%20AM.png?itok=XSWSK49W) [### When Teachers Choose: Fairness and Authenticity in Teacher-Initiated Classroom Observations ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/when-teachers-choose-fairness-and-authenticity-teacher-initiated-classroom-observations)PowerPoint presentation from the Best Foot Forward project focusing on the impacts of teacher video choice on the fairness and reliability of observation scores ![A Clearer View of the Classroom](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.55.04%20AM.png?itok=dDxK7P2y) [### A Clearer View of the Classroom ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/clearer-view-classroom)A glimpse at video as an advanced evaluation tool offering more depth to teachers and administrators, from District Administration ## Video Library Tools ![Libraries of Videotaped Instruction](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%209.58.11%20AM.png?itok=DtwH_2sO) [### Libraries of Videotaped Instruction ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/libraries-videotaped-instruction)A list of online collections of classroom video ## Safe Environment Tools ![Letter to Teachers](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%2010.03.42%20AM.png?itok=T6DrAFbo) [### Teacher Letter: Benefits of Video Observations and Common Questions about Privacy and Video Use ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/teacher-letter-benefits-video-observations-and-common-questions-about-privacy-and-video)A template letter to teachers highlighting the benefits of using video for classroom observations and evaluation, as well as responses to possible concerns over privacy ![Video Privacy Questions and Timeline](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-14%20at%2010.07.39%20AM.png?itok=SuxIPaXS) [### Video Privacy Questions: A Timeline ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/video-privacy-questions-timeline)Checklist of the important steps to take when implementing video ![Sample Teacher Consent Form](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.10.41%20PM.png?itok=MxtM5sxR) [### Sample Teacher Consent Form ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/sample-teacher-consent-form)Sample teacher form that can be customized for use in your district and that allows teachers to select what level of video observation they would like to implement ![Sample Collective Bargaining Agreement](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.14.05%20PM_0.png?itok=f5uPowj5) [### Collective Bargaining Agreement (Sample) ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/collective-bargaining-agreement-sample)Sample agreement from a district using video; can be used as a reference when discussing video with your teachers’ union ## Parent Communication Tools ![Common Questions Around Privacy and Video Use: Parents](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.18.30%20PM.png?itok=KbsLy1-R) [### Common Questions Around Privacy and Video Use: Parents ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/common-questions-around-privacy-and-video-use-parents)A list of frequently asked questions that you can share with students’ parents ![Student Privacy What Parents Need to Know](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.21.39%20PM.png?itok=FdFsRVeB) [### Student Privacy: What Parents Need to Know about Video ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/student-privacy-what-parents-need-know-about-video)Slides that can be customized to inform parents about video observations and what it means for the students involved ![Sample Consent Form (Opt-In)](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.25.36%20PM.png?itok=SPP0sw-j) [### Student Media Release Form: Opt-in ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/student-media-release-form-opt)Sample forms that can be customized for your context ![Opt Out Student Media Consent Form](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.28.00%20PM.png?itok=8QKkPuON) [### Student Media Release Form: Opt-Out ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/student-media-release-form-opt-out)Sample forms that can be customized for your context ![Face Blurring](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.29.46%20PM.png?itok=RosmjqPm) [### Face Blurring: When Footage Requires Anonymity ](http://youtube-global.blogspot.com/2012/07/face-blurring-when-footage-requires.html)Tools from YouTube to conveniently blur faces in a video ## Technology Tools ![Choose the Right Camera Guide](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.32.08%20PM_0.png?itok=QBw8MwaY) [### Choose the Right Camera ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/choose-right-camera)A guide to matching video equipment to your goals ![Audio Design](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.56.02%20PM_0.png?itok=LV_Aawk4) [### Audio Design: Microphones for the Classroom ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/audio-design-microphones-classroom)A description of different types of microphones and their best uses ![Viewing Platform Vendor List](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%201.58.53%20PM_0.png?itok=CqADQl_C) [### Viewing Platform Vendor List ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/viewing-platform-vendor-list)A guide to platforms that can be used for reviewing classroom videos ## Infrastructure Tools ![Infrastructure Checklist for Launch](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.04.46%20PM_0.png?itok=jIWlzs4O) [### Infrastructure Checklist for Launch ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/infrastructure-checklist-launch)A checklist to ensure your infrastructure is in place before teachers and administrators start using the technology ![Sample Support Structure](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.08.25%20PM_0.png?itok=VmPp8Y11) [### Sample Support Structure ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/sample-support-structure)An organizational chart to streamline support for users ![How To Talk to Tech Vendors](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.12.50%20PM.png?itok=gQhE01Ns) [### How to Talk to Technology Vendors: A Guide for Education Leaders ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/how-talk-technology-vendors-guide-education-leaders)Advice for making the most of your collaboration with tech vendors ## Training Tools ![Letter to Teachers: Benefits of Using Video](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.39.00%20PM_0.png?itok=Vbb5jpYR) [### Teacher Letter: Benefits of Video Observations and Common Questions about Privacy and Video Use ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/teacher-letter-benefits-video-observations-and-common-questions-about-privacy-and-video-0)A template letter to teachers highlighting the benefits of using video for classroom observations and evaluation, as well as responses to possible concerns over privacy ![Classroom Video Training Example](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.41.58%20PM_0.png?itok=7hieThTz) [### Classroom Video Training Example ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/classroom-video-training-example)A sample lesson plan for a training for teachers and principals on using video for formal observations ![Video Training Rubric](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.46.40%20PM_0.png?itok=8OTcHSps) [### Measuring Training Success ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/measuring-training-success)Some how-to videos for using video technology in the classroom from the MTTS Study ## Ensuring Readiness and Measuring Success Tools ![Assess your Video Observation Readiness Checklist](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.53.08%20PM.png?itok=t4gDUgxn) [### Assess Your Video Observation Readiness ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/assess-your-video-observation-readiness-checklist)A high-level checklist to identify gaps in your overall level of preparedness to implement video observations ![Teacher Video Pilot Success Story](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%202.57.12%20PM.png?itok=upKBnkar) [### Teacher Video Pilot Success Survey ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/teacher-video-pilot-success-survey)A sample survey to evaluate the success of your video observation initiative and identify areas for improvement ![Sample Video Observation Focus Group Script](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__360x360_scale/public/2025-08/Screenshot%202025-08-15%20at%204.12.56%20PM.png?itok=CeprBSTg) [### Sample Video Observations Focus Group Script ](https://prod-cepr.drupalsites.harvard.edu/resource/sample-video-observations-focus-group-script)A focus group script for you to customize to learn more about the value of video observations from your teachers ## Spread the Word ![Spread the Word](/sites/g/files/omnuum9881/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/cepr/files/c1a_fb.png?itok=y9UdrXiU) Share on: [Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=http://cepr.harvard.edu/video-observation-toolkit&text=Teachers%20have%20questions%20about%20video%20observations.%20The%20Best%20Foot%20Forward%20Toolkit%20has%20answers.%20&hashtags=usevideo) See also:- [ Teacher Effectiveness ](/focus-areas/teacher-effectiveness) - [ Resource ](/page-type/resource) - [ Best Foot Forward Project ](/project-name/best-foot-forward-project) - [ Practictioner Resource ](/resource-type/practictioner-resource)