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How to Apply Them in Your Classroom
In the Reggio Emilia Approach, the environment is considered the “third teacher,” alongside educators and peers. Thoughtfully designed spaces foster curiosity, collaboration, and independent learning. Classrooms are open, flexible, and filled with natural light, inspiring exploration and creativity. Materials are carefully chosen to encourage hands-on experiences, and documentation of children’s work is displayed to make learning visible. By creating an inviting and responsive atmosphere, the environment supports children’s sense of belonging, autonomy, and deep engagement in the learning process. (Strong-Wilson & Ellis, 2007).
Implementing the Environment as the Third Teacher in a Regular Classroom
Even in a non-Reggio Emilia classroom, educators can apply the philosophy of the environment as the “third teacher” by intentionally designing spaces that inspire curiosity, collaboration, and independent learning. Here are some key strategies:
- Flexible and Open Spaces – Arrange furniture to create inviting learning areas, such as reading nooks, exploration stations, and group work tables, allowing students to move freely and choose where to engage.
- Natural and Aesthetic Elements – Incorporate natural materials like wood, plants, and soft lighting to create a warm and calming atmosphere that fosters focus and creativity.
- Student-Centered Materials – Provide open-ended materials (e.g., loose parts, art supplies, recycled objects) that encourage exploration and problem-solving, rather than relying solely on structured worksheets or textbooks.
- Learning Documentation – Display student work, thinking processes, and reflections through visual documentation, such as project boards, photo displays, and journals, making learning visible and meaningful.
- Connection to the Real World – Design classroom spaces to reflect real-world contexts, integrating nature, community-based projects, and authentic learning experiences.
- Encouraging Independence – Organize materials at child-friendly heights and create self-directed learning zones where students can explore topics of interest and take ownership of their learning.
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