Some preliminary notes

A post-lesson conference is held when one teacher has taught a lesson that the other participants have observed. The main aim of a post-lesson conference is to review the main features of the lesson just taught, in terms of the lesson content and methods, focussing particularly on the degree of pupil's learning. The discussion will consider ways in which this lesson could be improved if taught to another group.

A key idea is that each participant in the conference is involved in a mutually beneficial professional dialogue. Each member is engaging in professional development, as he or she reflects deeply and analytically on the lesson and evidence of pupils' learning. This is very different from situations in which a rather trivial conversation, based on surface impressions such as 'this was a good lesson…' or 'you did well…' follows lesson observation.

The approach through conferencing recommended here is based on the belief that there is no one 'correct' interpretation of a lesson and no single 'correct' way of teaching it. Nevertheless, some methods are more appropriate to the learning context and therefore more powerful, given the intended learning outcomes. Also, some interpretations are richer in practical insight and in theoretical and conceptual content. Lesson conferencing is therefore not simply casual talk about teaching. It should provide an opportunity for teachers to reflect on their practice, and deepen and enrich their professional insights.