The Effect of a Lesson Study-Based ‎Professional Development Program on ‎Developing the Teaching Practices of ‎Elementary School Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

This study aimed to study the effect of a lesson Study-based professional development program on developing the teaching practices of elementary school mathematics teachers The study utilized a qualitative approach to research based on the case study method.. To achieve the aim of the study, the researchers have developed a programme based on the Japanese model of professional development for teachers called lesson study. The data collection tools included teachers' conversations, interview questions, and class notes. Four teachers from a primary school in Riyadh took part in the study. All qualitative data were thoroughly evaluated, linked, deliberated, and interpreted. The results showed that the lesson study program was effective in the development of teaching and reflective practices. The most developed teaching practices among the research sample were: educational objectives; specifically: "setting the long-term objectives of the lesson study" and "writing the educational objectives of the lessons". These were followed by mathematical content; specifically: "distributing the mathematical content according to the educational objectives", and "linking the mathematical content to student’s real life". After that, the teaching procedures are as follows:"preparing and developing the lesson plan", "expanding activities and enrich the lessons", and "employing appropriate strategies". The student learning came last as follows:"considering students’ responses and interaction", "developing students’ thinking skills", "arousing learning motivation among students", and "participating students in solving exercises and examples". In conclusion, a few recommendations were brought up for discussion