In this episode, I explore one of the most effective approaches I use when working with schools: Lesson Study for Assessment.

Originally developed in Japan, lesson study offers a collaborative framework that brings together teachers, educational psychologists, and school leaders to design, observe, evaluate, and refine teaching in a way that benefits all learners. Rather than relying on expert-driven recommendations, this approach places psychology and pedagogy side by side, creating a shared process of inquiry and problem-solving.

Through real examples from my own practice, I explore how lesson study can strengthen inclusion, support pupils with additional needs, and help schools create learning experiences that are both meaningful and engaging. I discuss how collaboration between professionals can lead to better outcomes for children, while also giving teachers greater ownership of the learning process.

A key theme throughout the episode is that effective support comes from psychology and pedagogy working together. When professionals bring different perspectives to the same challenge, they are better able to understand children's needs, build on their strengths, and create opportunities for genuine participation and success.

Ultimately, this episode is about creating classrooms where every child feels valued, included and able to thrive.

In This Episode, I Explore

• What Lesson Study for Assessment is and where it originated.
• How educational psychologists, teachers, and school leaders can work collaboratively to improve learning.
• Why psychology and pedagogy should be viewed as complementary disciplines.
• How lesson study can support inclusion without becoming tokenistic.
• Ways to use peer relationships and collaboration to strengthen learning outcomes.
• How schools can develop meaningful and measurable targets for pupils with additional needs.

Why This Episode Matters

As schools work to create more inclusive learning environments, collaboration has never been more important.

Lesson Study for Assessment provides a practical way for teachers, psychologists, and school leaders to work together, better understand pupils' needs, and design learning that supports everyone.

When professionals think and plan together, children are more likely to feel included, valued, and able to succeed.

🎧 Listen now and discover how psychology and pedagogy can work together to create better learning opportunities for every child.

Connect with Me

Instagram: @‌dradammcartney
Website: dradammccartney.com
YouTube: @‌Dr.AdamMcCartney