Teacher Education
In a recent webinar, Dr. Allison Smith (UMass Global) and Dr. Keith Walters (California Baptist University) shared insights from their research on video observation, AI-enhanced feedback, and the evolving role of university supervisors. Their discussion, recorded at the AACTE Annual Meeting explored how AI can support—not replace—coaching, helping teacher candidates develop confidence and skills through targeted, proactive feedback.
Dr. Smith and Dr. Walters began by reflecting on their journey with video observation. Initially, their research focused on whether video-based feedback was as effective as in-person coaching. Over time, their focus shifted to how video tools, and now AI, can enhance the coaching process, making observations more meaningful and actionable for both candidates and supervisors.
They’re exploring AI’s impact in three key areas:
A key takeaway from the research is that most clinical supervision is reactive, focused on rehashing what already happened. The shift to proactive coaching means giving candidates structured feedback that helps them adjust and grow professionally.
Dr. Walters introduced a coaching framework called the Tacking Protocol, inspired by the way a sailboat moves in a zigzag pattern rather than a straight line. Teaching isn’t linear, and candidates need guidance to navigate setbacks, refine their skills, and develop confidence over time.
The protocol emphasizes:
Dr. Smith shared how the AI Assistant in GoReact integrates seamlessly into their program. AI-generated feedback in GoReact offers an objective starting point for discussions, helping candidates identify areas for improvement. Supervisors remain in control, reviewing, editing, and curating the AI-generated insights to keep feedback focused and meaningful.
Some key benefits of AI-powered coaching include:
However, both presenters stressed that AI should never be used in isolation. Thoughtful editing and selective use of AI-generated feedback ensure that coaching remains human-centered.
To highlight AI’s role in strengthening—not replacing—coaching, Dr. Walters shared a story about a nervous candidate who struggled with classroom management. By reviewing AI-generated feedback alongside supervisor comments, the candidate was able to pinpoint a pattern in student behavior that had previously gone unnoticed. With structured coaching, his confidence grew, and his teaching improved significantly.
Dr. Smith shared a message from a university supervisor who initially felt disconnected from candidates when shifting to video-based coaching. However, with GoReact, he developed stronger relationships with candidates—even without meeting them in person. They became a team, regularly exchanging best practices and collaborating on improvement strategies.
The discussion reinforced that AI, when used thoughtfully, enhances the coaching process rather than replacing the human element, especially using proven tools like GoReact that have added AI tools to make coaching and instruction even easier. It gives supervisors more time for meaningful, individualized coaching, helping teacher candidates build the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
