Mapping the lesson: network graphs and microgenres

Abstract

While the use of video recording as a method of data collection has helped researchers to resolve the challenge of capturing classroom interactions between teachers and students, it can be challenging for the researchers and teachers to make sense of the rich data collected. This paper describes an approach of analysing and visualising a language lesson with lesson microgenre and network graphs to provide an overview map of the lesson enactment. Studying the language lesson from a lesson microgenre perspective can provide both the co-text and context of the lesson when specific segments of the lesson are identified for interpretation and reflection by the teacher. The lesson map is visualised using network graphs to show the progression, connections, and patterns of the lesson microgenres. The paper describes the application of the approach in a study of the English lessons conducted by two teachers in a Singapore primary school and discuss the implications of the approach on teacher training.