Lesson Study and History Instruction: Rewards and Challenges

• In Event: Roundtable Session 66
  In Roundtable Session: Pedagogical Approaches for Improving Instruction in History Classrooms

Abstract

This study examines the experiences of fifth through twelfth grade teachers in a Teaching American History grant using two cycles of lesson study. In an effort to contribute to the knowledge-base on lesson study in history education, we explore the following questions: What does an effective lesson study cycle for history education look like?; What mechanisms for instruction improvement occur through lesson study that involves re-teaching in history?; and What are the unique challenges of lesson study in history education? We demonstrate that lesson study for history education offers unique rewards and challenges compared to other subjects. Our study has significance for educators seeking to implement lesson study with history education.

Authors

• Anne-Lise F. Halvorsen, Michigan State University

• Alisa Kesler Lund, Grand Valley State University