From March 25 to 27, 2026, a delegation from the Teacher Education Centre under the auspices of UNESCO (UNESCO-TEC)—comprising Professor Hu Guoyong, Deputy Director of the Centre, Professor Huang Xingfeng, an expert in mathematics education, and Dr. Shen Yihua—visited the University of Turin, Italy, for academic exchange and collaboration.
At the University of Turin, the delegation participated in a two-day academic seminar themed “Theoretical Models for Collaborative Work among Mathematics Teachers”. The event was hosted by the Department of Mathematics and supported by the Italian Society for Research in Mathematics Education. It aimed to explore teacher collaboration mechanisms and their impact on teaching practice through the integration of theoretical modeling and empirical research. Scholars from Switzerland, Greece, the United States, and other countries delivered keynote presentations and facilitated interactive discussions.
The seminar focused on several cutting-edge topics, including the development of teacher knowledge in lesson study, the role of facilitators in lesson study, and the use of artificial intelligence to support data literacy in basic education. During the discussions, Professor Huang Xingfeng shared insights into the multiple roles of “facilitators” within China’s teaching research system. He introduced the mechanisms and experiences of Teaching Research Groups (TRGs) in supporting teacher professional development and offered a comparative analysis of classroom practices in China and Italy, which generated significant interest and in-depth discussion among participants. The seminar, characterized by its forward-looking themes and diverse formats, holds important implications for promoting collaborative teacher development and innovation in mathematics education.
Following the seminar, the delegation engaged in in-depth discussions with the Department of Mathematics at the University of Turin regarding existing partnerships and future directions for collaboration. The University of Turin expressed that it has long maintained cooperative relationships with multiple Chinese universities and looks forward to expanding collaboration in mathematics education with Shanghai Normal University and the UNESCO Teacher Education Centre. Professor Hu Guoyong introduced the TEC’s experience in international teacher education cooperation. Both sides agreed to actively explore opportunities for joint research, academic exchange, and talent development.
During the visit, the delegation also met with Professor Stéphane Clivaz, President of the World Association of Lesson Studies, to discuss preparations for hosting the World Association of Lesson Studies Conference in 2027 at Shanghai Normal University and the UNESCO Teacher Education Centre. Professor Clivaz indicated that he plans to visit Shanghai in May to conduct an on-site review of the conference arrangements.
This visit further strengthened academic ties between China and Italy in the field of mathematics education, deepened mutual understanding of teacher collaboration and cross-cultural teaching research, and laid a solid foundation for advancing international cooperation in teacher education and innovation in mathematics education.
