Bringing Lesson Study to Estonian Schools

University of Tartu and the Smart Future Fund have initiated the project “Lesson Study into Estonian Schools” to introduce and adapt the Lesson Study approach for local school contexts. Educational scientists from the Institute of Education are developing guidance materials in Estonian language for local teachers.

From February to May 2026 these materials will be tested in pilot schools. These three schools will experience their first Lesson Study cycles and serve as practical examples for others, helping refine the materials and method for different school models in Estonia and ensuring that its use is grounded in real classroom practice.

The research team is monitoring the entire process by collecting data before and after the Lesson Study cycles using lesson observation videos, pre- and post-questionnaires for students and teachers, and interviews with teachers.

As is the goal of the Lesson Study method, the project aims to strengthen teacher collaboration and improve the quality of student learning through systematic, evidence-based analysis of teaching. The Estonian project aims to adapt Lesson Study to local school context and supports the LIFT project´s focus on integrating Lesson Study in initial teacher education.

The initiative is led by Associate Professor of General Didactics Liina Lepp from the University of Tartu, along with Prof Margus Pedaste and Prof Äli Leijen.

Photo by Institute of Education, University of Tartu