The observer training manual is designed to teach concepts and skills required to collect objective, precise information concerning teaching and learning processes in elementary school classrooms. Included are exercises, quizzes and tests so that readers may test their mastery of each skill area. The five instructional units treat the following areas: structure codes indicating whether the child is in a group, individual, or transitional activity, and behavior codes for such behaviors as academic talk and attending; coding forms and recording procedures; use of an auditory timing device to regulate observation intervals; means of testing observer reliability; and field procedures for times before, during, and after observation sessions. (GW)