Parallel Lessons through Internet: an innovative teacher development model

Abstract

An innovative teacher development model entitled 'Parallel Lessons' was developed using a web-based video-conferencing software “Communication Suite” to connect Hong Kong and Guangzhou classrooms. A unit of 'Parallel Lessons' involves two teachers from different systems, who design and teach independently two lessons on a common topic to two classes in their own schools. Through the internet, the two teachers and other colleagues observe the lessons and attend a post-observation forum where they compare the two lessons. Such an activity exposes teachers to alternatives to their prevailing practices and stimulates deeper reflection on their teaching. Parallel Lessons have been conducted in Hong Kong and Guangzhou with a great success. In the session, the presenter will introduce the model including its design, techniques, difficulties and their solutions. Moreover, the effectiveness of the model on teacher development as well as its applicability to other systems will be discussed.