Developing mathematics-enhanced chemistry research lessons through productive lesson study: Insights from in-service teachers

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of five in-service chemistry and mathematics teachers in using productive lesson study as a framework for teaching and learning. Introductory professional development workshops on horizontal articulation, productive pedagogy and lesson study were given to teachers at the onset of the project. Teachers were then tasked to produce two research lessons for grade 10 chemistry using the productive lesson study framework. We utilised inductive thematic analysis to identify the themes underpinning the perceptions of the teachers. Findings show that the teachers improved and deepened their knowledge by learning from each other’s perspectives. They had also adopted effective strategies for teaching by reflecting on their students’ learning, which helped them address the challenges of integrating and relating different topics into one. Furthermore, they became more aware of their students’ prior knowledge which enabled them to address misconceptions. Thus, learning was reinforced, broadened and extended. Participating in the study made a transformative intervention in the teachers as they became more focused on the enhancement of their professional practice as teachers.