Class Observation and Tuesday's Outfit

Today I had my class observation at Parsons. Being observed by a senior faculty member is a standard procedure in all universities. This practice is intended to maintain an open dialogue between senior and junior members of the faculty, in which pedagogical discussions and critiques can occur thereby creating better professors. While the goal is noble and quite necessary, these observations are extremely nerve wracking. I know that I'm an awesome professor because my students grow and learn in my classes, observable by their progress. In addition, students often give me great reviews such as, "Professor Z. is really hard, but fair, and always interesting. I learned a lot in her class" (actual quote from a student review from last year). However, reviews written by faculty members are based on theoretical issues like teaching methods and successful communication of complex ideas. 

Needless to say, I think it went really well today. I was very impressed with my students as they answered difficult questions, clearly expressed their thoughts and opinions, and seemed genuinely engaged in the subject. They were so animated that I completely forgot that the observer was there, making it that much easier for me not to be nervous. The observer stayed approximately an hour, smiled often and wrote a lot. When she left one of my students exclaimed, "Professor Z., we got your back!" Awwwww ... instant melted academician! I love when they do that!

I decided to wear something a bit more stylish, artsy and professional. For the record, that skirt's waist band -- which is very wide -- is actually sitting on my hips. Oh yes, I must be down two dress sizes! The skirt is a shorter faux wrap made of grey and black leopard print jersey knit. The cut and the patten really makes it look like it fits me better than it does, so I'm going to be able to get away with wearing it for a little longer. You've seen the blouse before, however this time I've accentuated my waist with the cincher belt that I've been living in lately. I am sure you'll see this belt all the time -- well, at least until it's too big on me -- because it's really helping me keep a wardrobe in circulation that is way too large.  The blouse has lovely sequined, winged sleeves that adds a bit of dash and drama to the whole outfit. I topped the look with grey, diamond-patterned stockings and my pointed-toe flats that I featured in a previous post.

I avoided wearing chunky jewelry because I was being observed. I wanted her to pay attention to my students and to my lecture. When I was actually being observed I was wearing my pincord black blazer over the whole ensemble, but took it off when the she left the room. The only jewelry I wore was the hoops and nose stud I don't take out, a pair of small diamond studs in my second holes, and small diamond hoops set in silver. I wore my hair in a tight, low bun to the right side, topped with a black flower. 

All in all, today was awesome!

The Run Down:

Skirt: Lane Bryant

Blouse: Dress Barn

Tights: Target

Shoes: DSW

Belt: Lane Bryant

Diamond hoops and studs: gifts