Reggio Emilia in the American Middle School

The Reggio Emilia Approach to early childhood education is touted as one of the best educational philosophies for teaching young students. The approach emphasizes project-based learning, multiple intelligences, and community involvement, among other key tenets. While Reggio is growing in popularity worldwide, little research exists measuring the true efficacy of the approach. This study identifies research-based pedagogical best practices that support the elements central to the Reggio classroom. The study also explores adapting the Reggio Emilia Approach to the upper-elementary or middle school classroom. The approach is traditionally meant for early childhood, but its research-backed strategies could benefit students of any age group. The study is followed by three sample lesson plans, demonstrating how elements of the Reggio Emilia Approach could be adapted into a middle school English curriculum.