Shifting the Culture of Higher Education: Influences on Students, Teachers, and Pedagogy

Abstract

This article identifies a critical tension within the traditional higher education setting—specifically teacher education classrooms. Using the metaphor of a journey, the authors describe pedagogy and practice using inspirations from the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education. Participation in a monthly inquiry group is the catalyst for shifts in roles, expectations, outcomes, and assessment. Documentation (e.g., photos, video, narrative) of teachers' and students' learning guides teaching and learning practices that include emphasis on relationships and content, extension of learning and retention of principles, and active engagement and thoughtful reflection.