Research lessons are at the core of the larger process known as lesson study. Research lessons are actual classroom lessons with students, but typically share five special characteristics.

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Research lessons are observed by other teachers.

 

Research lessons are planned for a long time, usually collaboratively.

 

Research lessons are designed to bring to life in a lesson a particular goal or vision of education.

 

Research lessons are recorded. Usually teachers record these lessons in multiple ways, including videotape, audiotape, observational notes, and copies of student work. The particular data gathered depend upon the issues of interest to the teachers planning the lesson.

 

Research lessons are discussed. A colloquium follows the lesson. Typically, such a gathering begins with presentations by the teachers who taught and co-planned the lesson, followed by free or structured discussion; sometimes an outside educator or researcher also comments on the lesson (Lewis, 2000).

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Lewis, C. (2000). Lesson study: The core of Japanese professional development. Paper Special Interest Group on Research in Mathematics Education at American Educational Research Association meeting, New Orleans, LA.