A Comparative Analysis of Lesson Study Models in Japan, the USA and the UK

Abstract

Lesson Study is a model of professional development that originated in Japan. It attracted the attention of an international audience in the past decade, and subsequently spread to many other countries. In this study three Lesson Study models of Japan, the USA and the UK were compared and analyzed. The focuses and implications for teacher professional development were discussed. From our findings, the three Lesson Study models focus on improving the effectiveness of the experiences, instructional practice, enhancing teachers' knowledge of effective instructional strategies, collaboration and reflections. Besides, the findings indicate implications of Lesson Study for teacher professional development, including teaching practice, technology integration, collaboration, and consciousness of life-long learning. Moreover, several recommendations for the development of Lesson Study are provided.