What Is the Purpose of the Observation Checklist?

Storyteller Observation Checklist

For

Mentoring, Coaching or Training

What is the purpose of the Observation Checklist?

The checklist provides a teller with extra eyes and ears during a storytelling event. It can be used by trainers as a follow-up measure after training or by peer tellers as a structure for offering constructive critique. The checklist can be used in a variety of ways and should be adapted to the specific needs and goals of its users.

What are steps in using the Observation Checklist?

Choose an observer. For peer observation, the observer can be a person who completed the same training or course as the person being observed or an experienced storyteller who agrees to the purpose of the observation. For monitoring or as training follow up, the observer can be a mentor, coach, or trainer.
Give the observer the checklist. The observer needs time to carefully review and become familiar with the checklist in advance of the observation.
The observer should watch and listen silently, without any involvement in the storytelling activity. The observer should sit in a location where both teller and audience are easily seen and without causing distraction or discomfort.
The observer and the storyteller may want to have a brief post-observation conference to review findings. The post-observation conference should be held separately from the storytelling event.

What are the observer’s responsibilities?

Thoroughly familiarize yourself with the checklist prior to starting the observation.
Complete the checklist without bias so it is an honest and accurate representation of what occurred during the session.
Be clear about the purpose of the observation. It can be used for training follow up, peer coaching, monitoring, evaluating or simply as a means for offering friendly advice. The storyteller who is observed should be empowered by the use of the checklist.
Depending on the situation, the observer may want to complete the checklist after the storytelling session is over. If possible, complete the checklist immediately after the session in a location that does not distract from the event.
Make a date to hold a post-observation conversation to share notes or comments.

Storyteller Observation Checklist

Storyteller ______

Observer ______

Event Description -- Include date, location, audience, story title(s) etc:

Story Elements and Theme / Observed
√ / Not Observed
√ / Comments
The teller provides an introduction that simply & clearly relates the theme.
The teller opens the story by setting the scene with time, place and circumstances.
The story opening is engaging and inviting.
The pace of the story is appropriate and sequence of events is clear.
The middle of the story contains sequenced events, descriptions and action building to a climax.
The story climax or peak is evident.
Transitions between events in the plot are smooth, clear, and purposeful.
The story resolution or message is evident.
The teller closes the story by tying events together or providing a satisfying conclusion and the teller cites the story author and source.
The story beginning, middle and end are memorable for retelling.
The length of the story is appropriate for the audience age, interest, setting etc.
The images in the story are universal and meaningful.

Storyteller Observation Checklist (continued)

Voice, Gestures, Presence / Observed
√ / Not Observed
√ / Comments
The teller’s voice is audible.
The teller uses character voices appropriately so that the voices do not distract but enhance the story plot.
The teller’s diction and elocution enhances the story plot.
The teller uses natural gestures that enhance meaning.
The teller’s voice can set mood, engage listeners, and create images.
The teller clearly enjoys telling the story.
The teller is comfortable in front of a group.
Environment / Observed
√ / Not Observed
√ / Comments
The location for the storytelling event is without distraction.
The seating for the audience is age appropriate and conducive to listening.
The teller is able to use props or visuals that enhance story meaning and plot.
The teller uses the microphone with ease and competence.
The teller is flexible with environmental limitations and challenges.