Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is a teaching approach that focuses on letting young children guide their own learning through exploration and discovery. Named after the Italian city where it started, this method views children as naturally curious and capable learners. Teachers document children's work through photos, videos, and notes, using these to plan future activities. Unlike traditional preschool programs where teachers follow strict lesson plans, Reggio Emilia classrooms are set up to encourage creativity and collaboration, with teachers acting more as guides than instructors. This approach is often used in preschools, childcare centers, and early learning programs.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented Reggio Emilia approach in preschool classroom of 18 children
Documented student learning using Reggio Emilia observation techniques
Created learning environments based on Reggio Emilia principles
Led parent education workshops about the Reggio-Emilia teaching philosophy
Typical job title: "Reggio Emilia Teachers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Reggio Emilia Teachers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you design and implement a Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum?
Expected Answer: Should discuss project-based learning, explain how to follow children's interests, document learning processes, and describe methods for creating engaging environments. Should mention experience with program development and teacher training.
Q: How do you involve families in the Reggio Emilia approach?
Expected Answer: Should explain strategies for parent communication, documentation sharing, family involvement in projects, and how to create a community-centered learning environment.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you document children's learning in a Reggio-inspired classroom?
Expected Answer: Should describe various documentation methods like photos, notes, and displays, and explain how these are used to track progress and plan future activities.
Q: What role does the environment play in Reggio Emilia teaching?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how to set up classroom spaces that encourage exploration, explain the concept of environment as third teacher, and give examples of materials that support learning.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic principles of the Reggio Emilia approach?
Expected Answer: Should mention child-led learning, documentation, project work, and the image of the child as capable and curious.
Q: How do you support child-directed learning in your classroom?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to observe children's interests, provide appropriate materials, and facilitate rather than direct learning experiences.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of Reggio principles
- Classroom observation skills
- Basic documentation methods
- Supporting child-led activities
Mid (2-5 years)
- Project planning and implementation
- Advanced documentation techniques
- Parent communication strategies
- Environmental design
Senior (5+ years)
- Curriculum development
- Staff training and mentoring
- Program evaluation
- Family and community engagement
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of child-led learning principles
- Preference for strict, traditional teaching methods
- Lack of documentation experience
- No knowledge of early childhood development stages
- Resistance to working with families and communities
Related Terms
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