Teacher Observation

Classroom Observation Software Gets Mobile Treatment

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 01/15/16

A classroom observation program is going mobile. Edthena, from a company with the same name, is now available as an iOS app, enabling teachers to upload videos of their classroom instruction directly from their Apple mobile devices.

Edthena allows users to upload videos that can be shared with a coach or group of peers, who then add comments at timestamped moments. The announcement came during FETC 2016, an education technology conference taking place this week in Orlando.

"A key aspect of any video coaching process is a reliable and easy way to get videos online," said Adam Geller, head of Edthena, in a press release. "Our mobile app provides an option for an on-the-go upload that remains reliable and easy to use."

One school customer said she believes the new app will better fit her 1-to-1 environment. "Having our teachers use their iPad minis really will change the pace of the observation and the feedback process which, in turn, will accelerate the enhancements teachers can implement to improve their craft," said Diane Lauer, executive director of professional development in St. Vrain Valley School District in Colorado.

While the app is free in the iTunes Store, users must be registered with Edthena to use it.