A delegation of Thai educators has completed a key international phase of the 5th Educational Professional Development Project, undertaking a study visit to Japan from February 17-20, 2026. The program included a workshop at Japan's National Institute for School Teachers and Staff Development (NITS) and on-site classroom observations at leading Japanese schools.

The training at NITS focused on four core areas of instructional development:
1. Classroom Recording: Utilizing recordings as a tool for detailed analysis of student learning behaviors.
2. Japanese Lesson Design: Emphasizing content continuity and encouraging independent student thinking.
3. Collaborative Reflection: A process for teaching teams to refine instructional methods to foster both self-directed and collaborative student learning.
4. Learning Scenario Creation: Techniques for stimulating student interest and motivation to seek answers independently, a key element of modern education.

Beyond the theoretical training, participants observed a variety of live classes. These included an integrated studies class for 4th-grade elementary students, which demonstrated how to connect knowledge to real-life situations, as well as a 7th-grade science class and an 8th-grade mathematics class, which highlighted advanced analytical thinking and effective student collaboration.

A central activity of the visit was a comprehensive reflection meeting held on the afternoon of February 19, 2026. This session provided an opportunity for all participants to re-examine their professional roles through the new perspectives gained from observing the Japanese educational approach.

The exchange program aimed not only to deepen academic understanding but also to inspire the educators to adapt and apply these high-quality teaching models within the context of Thai schools. The ultimate goal is to enhance student potential and elevate the standards of the Thai teaching profession to an international level.

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