Reggio Emilia Approach in the United States

Abstract

Progressive educational approaches are growing in interest in the United States. The Reggio Emilia Approach is one progressive philosophy that is gaining traction in the realm of early childhood education. Due to the approach's contextual nature and value placed on children and teachers, it could have benefits for the increasingly diverse population in the United States. Additional research is needed on the approach overall, particularly on its utilization in the context of the United States. Utilizing a survey with both open-ended and closed-ended questions, this study attempted to better understand what educators are using from the approach, their perceptions of the approach, and how the approach has impacted their practice and/or philosophy. This study found that educators are able to utilize a variety of Reggio-inspired aspects and have been impacted positively, but there was a very limited understanding of the approach and its philosophical foundations. This can inform future researchers, Reggio-inspired professional development, and Reggio-inspired teacher preparation programs to ensure a quality understanding of the approach and its philosophical foundations. This can also inform any educators who are interested in researching the approach themselves to focus on the philosophical foundations before the specific practices but also to inform that it is possible to be Reggio-inspired in any context in the United States.