Which peers? Who do you ask?

Having made the decision to engage in a process of peer review of our teaching, perhaps the first question that we would ask is "who?". Who will I ask? Who among my colleagues will I ask to give me feedback on my teaching? Who will be willing to give me feedback?

The "who" question gives us cause to reflect on the concerns that we might have about engaging in peer review. We might reflect on the characteristics of someone we would choose as a reviewer. If we think of the peer review process as a dialogue between two colleagues who share ideas and provide constructive feedback to each other, the "who" question might be less of an issue.

Gunar Handal (1999) refers to colleagues who engage in such a dialogue as critical friends. Handal makes the observation that critical and friend are concepts that we usually do not associate.

Friends are people who are close to us, who support us, and who provide confirmation. They often disregard our weak points or excuse them rather than confront us with them. Criticism is generally conveyed by others who are not as close to us ... But in fact a real friend is someone to rely on, someone who will hold a critical mirror before us if necessary. (p. 63)

Participants in two recent Foundations of University Teaching and Learning programmes shared their thoughts on what they would look for in choosing a peer reviewer. Characteristics included: honesty, objectivity, tact, familiarity with content, familiarity with good teaching, openness to suggestions, openness to difference, trustworthiness and equality in status.

As you give thought to your choice, be aware of the reservations your colleague might have about being a peer reviewer. One of the main concerns raised by the Foundations programme participants was being able to give good feedback that is balanced and offered in a positive and constructive manner.

What characteristics might you look for in a critical friend?

• Handal, G. (1999). Consultation using critical friends. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, 79. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.