The class was asked, "What is Lesson Study?"
Lesson Study is a new approach to me. My understanding is that a small group of teachers work collaboratively to plan, teach, observe, analyze and then refine the class lesson. The video showed today on lesson study conducted by a preschool teacher proved to be insightful. Preschool teachers can conduct a lesson study:
1. To improve their teaching
2. To better understand how children learn
3. To build a pedagogical knowledge of teaching
When conducting a mathematical investigation, it is important that teachers plan an activity that is divergent in nature so as to allow children to explore and experiment mathematical ideas and situations in many directions. At the same time, allowing children to demonstrate problem solving, thinking and communication skills.
In mathematical investigation, teachers:
- Need to observe
- Listen to follow children’s reasoning
- Ask questions at the right moment to help children think further
- Provide waiting time for children to think and discuss ideas
- Act as a facilitator
Certain aspects of it are already in practice I believe, as preschool teachers need to observe and facilitate their children on a daily basis.
As such, lesson study provides opportunities for teachers to reflect and research on ways to improve their teaching practices. It is also a process where teachers can assess their children based on their ability to describe and communicate their ideas, how they justify solution and the steps they have taken to arrive at their solutions.
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