Preface
This learning course was developed as part of the PRISM Project, implemented by REB and JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency). It serves as a practical guide designed to assist both novice and experienced educators, including tutors and student-teachers at Rwanda's Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs), as well as practicing teachers at the affiliated primary schools of the TTCs. The course aims to help these educators acquire a basic understanding of Lesson Study — a continuous professional development activity (CPD) for teachers — and guide them through its implementation.
The PRISM Project aims to enhance the quality of teaching and improve both the quality and quantity of student learning in Rwandan schools by integrating ICT into education. As part of this ongoing effort, the course will be continuously updated with new information based on the teaching practices of Rwandan educators. This includes examples of innovative approaches to lesson improvement, the use of new ICT tools, and recommendations for effective applications and teaching strategies. To further support educators, we encourage the formation of a Community of Practice (CoP), where teachers can collaboratively address school challenges, share best practices, and elevate teaching quality across the education system.
A key focus of the PRISM Project is the promotion of Lesson Study as a tool for improving lessons, particularly in math and science, through the effective use of ICT. Lesson Study involves a continuous, cyclical process where teachers collaboratively develop and refine lesson plans, conduct micro-teaching sessions, and adjust the lessons based on peer feedback. We are enhancing this process by integrating video recordings of lessons, which will be uploaded online for asynchronous reflection and discussion.
To support this effort, we have developed a filming manual that outlines best practices for recording classroom activities. This ensures that teachers' instructional methods and students' learning activities are captured in high-quality video, providing valuable material for Lesson Study reflections and further professional development.
If you have any suggestions for additions or revisions to this course, please notify the PRISM Project. Your input helps us ensure that the content remains up-to-date and continues to benefit educators and students alike.
How to use the Lesson Study Practical Guide
This guide has been designed for TTCs to understand the effectiveness of Lesson Study and to know how to put it into practice. You can try to conduct Lesson Study as Continuous Professional Development (CPD) by following the steps suggested in this guide.
Effective teacher learning must be built into teachers’ daily and weekly schedules
Schools must become the places where teachers, not just students, learn.
Stigler and Hiebert (2009, p.37)
Your effort is greatly appreciated.