Lesson Study with Mathematics and Science Preservice Teachers: Finding the Form

This book provides an overview of lesson study in US teacher education, with examples from math and science teacher educators. It is aimed at teacher educators who want to try lesson study in university contexts, and offers insights and examples to advance pedagogical goals.

Format: Hardback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume provides an in-depth exploration of the core principles and practices of lesson study in US teacher education, offering a rich tapestry of insights and examples drawn from the experiences of math and science teacher educators working within their local contexts. While the adoption of lesson study among teacher educators working with preservice teachers remains relatively limited, there is a discernible upward trend in its utilization. This book is specifically designed to cater to teacher educators who are interested in exploring the potential of lesson study in university settings, without the daunting task of translating the practice from its K-12 origins on their own.

In its broadest sense, lesson study encompasses a multifaceted approach to teaching and learning, characterized by a collaborative and iterative process that involves teachers engaging in the analysis, refinement, and improvement of their instructional practices. It revolves around the systematic observation, reflection, and analysis of classroom lessons, with the aim of identifying and addressing areas for growth and development.

Within the framework of lesson study, attention is paid to the various constituent steps that comprise the process. These steps include planning and preparation, lesson implementation, and debriefing and reflection. Each step is intricately linked, and the collective efforts of teacher educators and their preservice teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes and impact of the study.

To illustrate the practical application of lesson study in preservice contexts, this volume showcases a diverse range of lesson study descriptions and cases. These examples are drawn from a wide array of subject specialities and geographic locations, reflecting the universal nature of the practice and its potential to transcend disciplinary boundaries. By presenting these narratives, teacher educators and scholars alike will gain valuable insights and practical strategies that can be applied to their own teaching practices, fostering continuous improvement and innovation in the field.

The implementation of lesson study is guided by a multitude of contingencies, influenced by the specific contexts and characteristics of teacher education programs. These contingencies include the program design, the nature of the teaching and learning environment, the participants' backgrounds and experiences, and the pedagogical goals and objectives of the study. Recognizing and accommodating these contingencies is essential for ensuring the success and sustainability of lesson study in different settings.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume serves as a valuable resource for teacher educators and scholars seeking to deepen their understanding and implementation of lesson study in US teacher education. By providing a thorough overview of the core principles and practices, as well as offering illustrative examples from diverse contexts, it equips educators with the tools and strategies necessary to enhance their teaching and learning practices, ultimately contributing to the improvement of educational outcomes for students.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032353449