Lesson Study Model of 4-H Professional Development: Data-Driven Improvements to Educator Practice

Authors

Lynn Schmitt-McQuitty, University of California Cooperative Extension; San Benito, Santa Cruz, and Monterey CountiesFollow
Steven Worker, University of California Cooperative Extension; Marin, Sonoma, and Napa CountiesFollow
Martin Smith, University of California, DavisFollow

Abstract

Educator professional development in the 4-H Youth Development Program needs improvement. Lesson study, an iterative and educator-centered approach to professional development, has proven to be effective in school-based settings; however, research on the model in youth development programs is limited. The present study investigated the use of lesson study with professional Cooperative Extension staff, adult 4-H volunteers, and teenage 4-H volunteers in different 4-H contexts in 3 state programs. Findings revealed improvements in educators’ data-driven decision-making, content knowledge, lesson planning and implementation, and social connections across all contexts. To work effectively within the 4-H context, however, some adaptations to the model were necessary.

Recommended Citation

Schmitt-McQuitty, Lynn; Worker, Steven; and Smith, Martin (2019) "Lesson Study Model of 4-H Professional Development: Data-Driven Improvements to Educator Practice," Journal of Youth Development: Vol. 14: Iss. 1, Article 9.
DOI: 10.5195/jyd.2019.693
Available at: https://open.clemson.edu/jyd/vol14/iss1/9