The authors describe the typical type of teacher observation and assessment used today -- top down, one-way communication from supervisor to teacher that looks at the weaknesses in the teaching. The authors believe that observation and feedback can be something more. They present six strategies for supervisors (e.g., recognizing subjectiveness, talking across the data, providing alternatives and resources). Additional suggestions include structured intervention and supervisor portfolios.

This article reflects on the articles published at the fourth decade of Forum (1993-2002) that present theoretical perspectives and classroom practices discussed over the past ten years. It provides four articles, each of which focuses on a different theme that was preeminent in that decade. These themes consist of the efficacy of using methods developed for ESL contexts in EFL contexts, the use of portfolios as assessment tools, the integration of project work in ESP classes, and teacher autonomy.

This article presents the idea of using student assessment cards to train students to adopt efficient learning strategies. It discusses how individual assessment cards allow each student to see how well he or she is progressing at any point in the course. The article describes what a student assessment card is and provides detailed guidelines, including descriptions of the content on each side of the card, and about when and how to use these in the language classroom.

This article discusses the use of stories and fables in teacher training programs. It provides a selection of 12 stories and fables the authors have used in pre-service and in-service teacher training workshops around the world. The article suggests a theme to connect each story to a teaching, training, or staff development situation.