Benefits, difficulties and conditions of lesson study implementation in basic teacher education: A review

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to review the effectiveness of the implementation of the lesson study in higher education through the review of 28 empirical researches conducted both in Greece and the world over the past decade (2008-2018). In particular, the benefits, the difficulties and the conditions of effective implementation of the lesson study are examined. The lesson study is a method of improving teaching and learning for students and teachers. The results of the research revealed that the development of co-operation, reflection and professional development of preservice teachers are seen as important advantages due to the implementation of the lesson study. The preparation time, the tensions and the stress resulting from the monitoring of the teaching of their fellow students are mentioned as main difficulties, while participation and cooperation of preservice teachers and their support by trainers are seen as necessary conditions for its successful implementation. There is also a need for further research on the implementation of the lesson study in higher education, mainly in Greece, compared to the international field.