Insights Towards Cultural Aspects and Related Impacts of Lesson Study Practices: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Lesson Study (LS) is a professional development model that Japanese teachers have been utilizing for over a century. Although several scholars have proclaimed the benefits of adopting LS in international educational systems, it is still unclear how LS has been used and how it should be implemented in cultures beyond Japan. To shed light on the theme, a Systematic Review was conducted aiming to (1) identify specific features of LS practices as they are developed in different settings, (2) verify and analyze what cultural aspects may have impacted the implementation of LS, and (3) verify and develop an analysis of challenges for the use of successful practices of LS in international contexts. 5 international academic databases were searched to identify 28 publications. This investigation provides multiple evidence of the fast global spread of LS and reveals that some key adaptations or redesigns are conducted so that LS meets local needs and conditions. It argues that time constraints, financial support, search for quick results, and inclusion of knowledgeable others are critical aspects that should be considered when introducing LS to a new context. Finally, this study suggests further avenues for research to deepen the understanding of how the LS movement should be properly implemented in different contexts outside Japan.