Running your own lesson study

Originating in Japan in the 1900s, lesson study is based on a collaborative model of plan, teach, observe, evaluate (Makinae 2010). The observation focus is on pupil learning rather than teacher behaviour.

Most models suggest three teachers working together, but it can work well with as few as two or as many as five. Either way, it is a powerful process for developing teaching and learning and an outstanding tool for professional development:

Lesson study is a focused cycle of teacher learning. The basic cycle follows this path:

At heart lesson study is a collaborative way of evaluating and refining lesson design, content and delivery. It is a positive and inclusive way for teachers to implement and evaluate whole-school initiatives. It lends itself to a useful look at whole-school systems based on a “principles” rather than “policies” approach.