WHAT: To improve mathematics teaching and learning, teachers from around the world will meet at the 2008 Seventh Annual Lesson Study Conference to explore a professional development approach for teaching math based on a Japanese technique called Lesson Study, which uses collaborative teacher planning and evaluation. 2008 Seventh Annual Lesson Study Conference: Building a Worldwide Collegial Network through Lesson Study.

WHO: Math educators from around the world, hosted by Akihiko Takahashi, assistant professor in DePaul University’s School of Education and head of the Chicago Lesson Study Group.

WHEN: Thursday, May 8, through Saturday, May 10

WHERE: DePaul University’s Lincoln Park Student Center, Room 120A & B, 2250 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago

BACKGROUND: In Japan, Lesson Study has been used in elementary and middle schools to teach everything from math to art. In 1999, when U.S. students performed dismally on the Third International Mathematics and Science Study, American teachers flew to Japan to videotape the lessons that helped Japanese students score well on the same test.

The Chicago Lesson Group was launched in November 2002 with several volunteer teachers in the Chicago area. Akihiko Takahashi has taken the lead in infusing this unique learning technique to Chicago schools.

Since its inception, this informal study group has met regularly to discuss issues in mathematics teaching and learning and to develop research lesson plans. As part of the lesson study cycle, the group hosts an annual lesson study conference with public research lessons.

Through lesson study, teachers gain insight into students’ conceptual structures, thinking processes and the ways in which students’ ideas change in response to a well-designed activity.