Italy The Reggio Emilia Approach in Context: History, Policy, and Culture Summer I 2020

Program description This experience will provide students with a deeper understanding of the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. The program combines discussions of history and theory with experiential learning in both Rome and Reggio Emilia, Italy. Exciting tours, observations of educational centers, and immersion in an exemplary early childhood program will be complemented with discussions, reflections, and presentations. Program Type: Faculty-led Tour Program Directors: Dr. Laura Herold, [email protected] Dr. Shelley McNally, [email protected] Program Dates: May 20 - June 10, 2020* Program Deadline: February 1, 2020 Program Costs: $3,000 + Airfare (Est. $2,000) + UA Tuition Course Credit - 3 Credit Hours HDFS 400V, HDFS 400VH, CIED 499V, CIED 499VH Navigate your path! Purpose The Reggio Emilia Approach in Context Program is designed for students who are passionate about working with children and becoming classroom teachers. The course is ideal for students who are familiar with emergent child-led curriculum and interested in the impact of culture on education policy and practices. The program allows students to explore the orgin of the Reggio Emilia approach which has culturally impacted the field of early childhood education. Highlights • Visit the inspiring Loris Malaguzzi International Center and Reggio Children in Reggio Emilia. • Tour and experience a school for young children in Reggio Emilia where the approach comes to life. • Tour the inspiring ReMida: The Creative Recycling Center, a place that promotes the concept that unused materials can be reclaimed as resources for teachers. • Tour the ancient Colosseum and the Roman Forum. • Walk the lush paths of the Villa Borghese, and experience the powerful sculptures of Bernini. • Gaze up at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel on a tour of the Vatican City. • Explore Rome, or other vibrant cities such as Venice or Florence, by taking advantage of time set aside for free exploration.

Meet a Previous Student “This program allowed me to have hands-on experiences with a learning approach that is studied throughout the course of my degree. I experienced the material in a way that brought the information to life. I saw children learning in a way that is not familiar to the U.S., which helped me gain a deeper understanding of how children learn and explore concepts.” ~Amber Barter, 2018 participant, Birth Through Kindergarten major

To learn more about this program and apply, visit bumpersinternational.uark.edu or contact one of the program directors.