Applying the Reggio Emilia Philosophy to Older Students
Applying the Reggio Emilia philosophy to older students, such as those in Grade 4 and above, requires adapting its core principles to fit their developmental needs, interests, and capacity for abstract thinking. Here's how we do it at The Village Schoolhouse.
1. Encouraging Inquiry-Based Learning
Older students have a stronger ability to ask complex questions and engage in research. Educators can create projects or units of study driven by students' interests and curiosity.
How It Works:
Start with open-ended questions like, "What would you change about the world?" or "How do ecosystems survive?"
Let students collaboratively brainstorm and decide on a focus, like sustainability, robotics, or ancient civilizations.
Guide them in conducting in-depth research, experimenting, and presenting findings.
Example:
A class interested in storytelling might develop a multimedia project where students collect oral histories from community elders, document them through written narratives, and create a podcast series to share their stories. This project integrates research, communication skills, and creative expression while fostering intergenerational connections.
2. Project-Based Learning (PBL) with Real-World Connections
Older students thrive when they see the relevance of their learning. Long-term, interdisciplinary projects rooted in real-world problems can build critical thinking and practical skills.
How It Works:
Involve students in identifying problems in their community or school.
Support them in working collaboratively to propose solutions and take action.
Integrate subjects like math, science, history, and art into these projects.
Example:
A Grade 5 class could design a school garden by researching local plant species, calculating the budget, creating a layout, and documenting the process in a blog.
3. Fostering Creative Expression
Older children still benefit from "a hundred languages" of expression but with more sophisticated tools and mediums.
How It Works:
Provide access to diverse materials such as digital tools, advanced art supplies, or woodworking equipment.
Encourage students to represent their learning through films, podcasts, murals, or 3D models.
Example:
In a history project, students might create a digital timeline, film a documentary, or perform a play about historical events.
4. Emphasizing Collaboration and Debate
Older students are developmentally ready for deeper collaboration and discussions, which foster critical thinking and social-emotional growth.
How It Works:
Assign group projects where students must rely on one another’s strengths.
Host debates or Socratic seminars on topics of interest, encouraging students to research, articulate, and defend their ideas.
Example:
In a literature class, students could debate the moral decisions of characters or reimagine the story's ending through a collaborative rewrite.
5. Utilizing the Learning Environment
The Reggio principle of the “environment as the third teacher” remains relevant for older students, but it can be designed with their needs in mind.
How It Works:
Create dynamic spaces with zones for group work, quiet study, and creative projects.
Provide access to tools like computers, cameras, 3D printers, and science equipment.
Showcase students’ work prominently to validate their efforts and inspire peers.
Example:
A Grade 6 classroom might have a science lab corner, a collaborative design wall, and an area for showcasing ongoing projects.
6. Encouraging Reflection and Documentation
Older students can take on more responsibility for documenting their learning process and reflecting on their growth.
How It Works:
Introduce journals, digital portfolios, or blogs where students record their thoughts, progress, and challenges.
Host regular reflection sessions where students share insights and learn from each other.
Example:
During a science experiment, students could use video journals to document hypotheses, procedures, and results.
7. Connecting to the Community
As we connect with community partners to create unique learning opportunities, our older students can directly engage with their local or global communities, applying what they learn to make a real impact.
How It Works:
Partner with local network of businesses, professionals and parents with niche skillsets.
Invite guest speakers or experts to mentor students on relevant topics.
Example:
We connect with a local restaurant to host cooking classes or a group of students studying architecture might work with a local architect to redesign a community park.
8. Student Ownership
Empowering older students to co-create their educational experiences fosters responsibility and self-reliance.
How It Works:
Allow students to participate in setting goals, providing input on classroom rules and schedule design.
Give them the freedom to choose how they demonstrate their learning.
Example:
In a unit about ecosystems, students could choose between writing a research paper, creating a diorama, or leading a workshop for younger students.
Benefits for Older Students:
Deeper Critical Thinking: Inquiry and project-based learning encourage analyzing complex systems and ideas.
Collaboration Skills: Working in groups fosters teamwork, communication, and empathy.
Creativity: Using diverse methods of expression keeps learning dynamic and engaging.
Real-World Application: Connecting learning to community challenges builds relevance and purpose.
Agency and Confidence: Having a say in their learning process develops self-motivation and leadership.
The Reggio Emilia philosophy for older students focuses on nurturing independence, curiosity, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to their world while still embracing their creativity and individuality.
These are just some of the ways our educators at The Village Schoolhouse draw inspiration in designing an engaging learning environment for older students. If you're interested in seeing how this philosophy comes to life, we invite you to book a tour and experience it firsthand!
