ACROSS FAMILIES/ Collaborative research design

Lesson study

Study pupil learning through a jointly designed lesson

Lesson study is collaborative enquiry in which teachers identify a learning problem, study relevant material, plan a research lesson, observe pupils’ learning and analyse evidence together. Revision and further teaching may follow. The lesson is a vehicle for investigating learning and improving practice, rather than a performance appraisal of the teacher delivering it.

WHEN IT FITS

Choose it when colleagues can protect time for joint planning, observation and evidence-based discussion of a specific learning challenge, and the school supports the enquiry’s developmental purpose.

Strengths

Makes pupil learning the focus of collaborative professional learning
Connects planning decisions with close observation of classroom responses

Limitations

Requires coordinated time and trust
Case pupils may not represent all learners

Know the boundary

Lesson study participation alone does not demonstrate improved attainment or causal impact on teaching.

USED ACROSS

Education