World education continues to incorporate genetic material from Kazakhstan: New developments in global academia
Step into the vibrant world of education as "The Lounge" shifts base from Astana to Almaty, embracing the national conference titled "Professional Dialogue: Transforming Education with Lesson Study". This conference, now a significant international event, attracted top educators from over ten countries in real-time and digital formats. Over 550 teachers and school directors from Kazakhstan attended this yearly gathering.
The buzz surrounding the conference was palpable, with its innovative panel sessions, sectional meetings, and masterclasses setting the stage for engaging dialogue. In the casual setting of the mobile "Lounge", industry experts like Stefan Klivá (World Association of Lesson Studies President), Kulzada Kudaibergenova (Professor, Kazakh State Women's Pedagogical University), and Zhambota Kabdykarimova (Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools JSC Deputy Chairman) joined Tolkyn Aidossova (Pedagogical Mastery Center Director) and Ajar Kojabaeva for enlightening discussions on national curricula, teacher development, and nurturing the next generation of learners.
Stefan Klivá shared his enthusiasm for Lesson Study, emphasizing its global appeal: "Lesson Study transcends educational policy and curriculum, uniting educators worldwide. Even without language barriers, I can easily grasp the content in a Kazakhstani school just as I would in a Swiss one."
The shift from Astana to Almaty marked the second time I was part of an educational conference in Kazakhstan, and I was struck by the dedication of local teachers to Lesson Study. The commitment to ongoing professional development was evident, extending beyond the success of research activities to a genuine thirst for knowledge. This dedication is key to reinforcing the impact of Lesson Study on the future of the country.
Tolkyn Aidosova, detailed the Center for Pedagogical Mastery's efforts over the past decade to implement and popularize Lesson Study in Kazakhstan. Starting small, they recognized the importance of fostering a professional community to support teachers in implementing research activities. Regional conferences were instrumental in building a strong pedagogical community across the nation.
Now, there's a critical mass of educators interested in continuous development, as evidenced by the high standards of abstracts presented at the Astana WALS conference. In fact, over 600 abstracts from Kazakhstan were submitted for the global conference in Hiroshima this November, making for a difficult choice due to the sheer volume of submissions.
Foreign experts consistently highlight the creation of a national system of research practice in Kazakhstan. According to Zhamota Kabdykarimova, Lesson Study is more about self-reflection and researching one's own teaching methods, with most teachers working for personal growth instead of reporting to superiors.
As for the range of participants, it's not only middle school teachers but also kindergarten educators, college and university professors, and even pedagogical institute students who engage in Lesson Study research activities. These conferences offer a unique blend of perspectives, fostering innovation and collaborative learning.
Kazakhstani educators have made their mark on the global stage, with over 1000 works published in the digital library of the University of Cambridge’s Camtree platform, including over 30 by Kazakhstani educators. In the coming year, publications in Kazakh will be added to the global platform. Additionally, a significant book titled "Lesson Study in Kazakhstan" is planned in collaboration with Cambridge University.
The conference's first keynote speaker was Peter Dudley from the University of Cambridge's Hughes Hall College, reinforcing the growing ties between institutions. The success of Kazakhstan's education in Lesson Study is evident, leading Stefan Klivá to remark that "Kazakhstan has put down deep and reliable roots for the Lesson Study tree, with its crown expanding every year."
It's clear that Lesson Study has revolutionized Kazakh education, fostering collaborative learning, and transforming the educational landscape. By focusing on research, reflection, and continuous professional development, educators are empowered to create a brighter future for Kazakhstan's children.
- Regardless of technological boundaries, Stefan Klivá finds the content in a Kazakhstani school as easily graspable as in a global institution like the one in Switzerland, highlighting the universal appeal of Lesson Study.
- The analytical approach of the Lounge's panel sessions, sectional meetings, and masterclasses in Astana, coupled with the commitment to ongoing pedagogical development showcased by educators, illustrates the dedication to transforming education within Kazakhstan.
- Despite the initial focus on middle school teachers, the broad range of participants including kindergarten educators, college professors, and pedagogical institute students demonstrates the inclusivity and potential of Lesson Study research activities, furthering collaborative learning and innovation in Kazakh education.
