Collaborative Lesson Research (CLR) is a model which addresses teaching and learning gaps through collaborative planning, implementing and organized post lesson discussions. 

The CLR study venture is among Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) and five Primary Schools namely Visa Oshwal, Karen C, Oloolua, Buruburu 1 and Kyamulendu. The collaboration started in the year 2019 and is expected to take three years.

With the onset of COVID-19, the engagement was halted with a hope of a little break and resumption. In November 2020, an online training was conducted from 23rd to 27th November. Organizers for the training were Japanese experts from Tokyo Gakugei University (TGU) with the Lead Researcher on CLR and key trainer, Dr. Akihiko Takahashi operating from the USA.

Participants were a team of CEMASTEA staff and teachers drawn from the five schools. The training involved synchronous and asynchronous sessions.

 (JICA long term expert Prof. Tetsuya Takahashi, CEMASTEA team and participants who undertook online training with their certificates; (clockwise) Karen C primary , BuruBuru 1 Primary ,  Kyamulendu Primary  and Oloolua Primary Schools)

During the online training, participants were taken through the concept of lesson study commonly known as “Kyouzai Kenkyu” in Japan. They used mathematical examples to elaborate how teachers can collaboratively plan lessons and maximize on learners’ ideas during teaching for effective curriculum delivery. 

Those who successfully completed the training were awarded certificates. It is hoped that the idea shall be passed on to other teachers in our schools.In January, 2021, JICA dispatched a long term expert Prof. Tetsuya Takahashi to CEMASTEA to support the research process.

(JICA long term expert, Professor Takahashi Tetsuya)