Reflections on the Reggio Emilia approach as inspiration for early childhood teacher education in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abstract

This article discusses a teacher educator's reflections on her participation in an international study group and visits to the infant-toddler and pre-schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, as inspiration for early childhood teacher education in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The following five themes are reflected on, for teacher education in the context of Abu Dhabi: (1) socio-constructivist learning with child as protagonist; (2) the environment as the third teacher; (3) making children's thinking visible through art; (4) the value of interaction with nature; and (5) observation and documentation of learning with teacher as researcher. It is envisaged that this reflection will be of interest to all teacher educators and, in particular, to those involved in education in the UAE, Gulf Countries, and countries undergoing educational reform.

Keywords:

• reflections
• The Reggio Emilia approach
• early childhood teacher education

Notes on contributor

Fiona S. Baker, Associate Professor, is Head of Early Childhood at Emirates College for Advanced Education in Abu Dhabi, UAE. She has started to inspire early childhood teachers in Abu Dhabi to reflect on the Reggio Emilia approach. She teaches Master's, PGDE and Bachelor of Education courses. She is currently researching digital technology in the early years.