The pre-observation discussion between the faculty member and the observer helps to alleviate anxiety and provides the observer with information about how the section is going and what the observer would like to accomplish on the day of the visit. The pre-observation discussion also enables to identify areas that he or she would like feedback on. The collaborative nature of the pre-observation dialogue provides an opportunity to reflect upon and discuss teaching and learning and to experience the observation and feedback process as a means to improve teaching rather than simply as a form of evaluation.