The workshop, Environment as Third Teacher, aims to help participants come to a better understanding of the many ways that children view space. Consideration is given to how we might, as educators, make conscious, clear efforts to create democratic links between architecture and pedagogy, specifically with a Reggio inspired lens. Learners will have ample opportunities to consider the impact of aesthetics in environments for young children and to come to a better understanding of the importance of a pedagogy of listening when we plan the structure and arrangement of children’s educational spaces to reflect a Reggio inspired philosophy.

“In order to act as an educator for the child, the environment has to be flexible: it must undergo frequent modification by the children and the teachers in order to remain up-to-date and responsive to their needs to be protagonists in constructing their knowledge” Lella Gandini (1998).

During the two day workshop participants will experience many opportunities to explore materials, collaborate with peers and engage in critical reflection and dialogue.

Objectives
Participants will:

• rethink and reconsider the learning environment
• consider the impact of time and space
• reflect on the role and potential of materials and resources
• evaluate the importance of co-constructing learning environments
• reframe environmental influences through the lens of our image of the child and the pedagogy of listening
• the outdoor learning environment

Outline
Day 1:

• Find inspiration through words by selecting and creating visions and values for environmental design and change
• Consider how learning environments can enhance learning, creativity and responsiveness, or detract from it through the utilization of the PARK method of participatory design
• Utilize examples of learning environments that consider the “flow of the day” with consideration to schedules, transitions and large blocks of time for play to make plans for change through the reflective process of “rethinking” space
• Explore how the availability, quantity, and arrangement of materials affects playful learning, inquiry and engagement
• Engage in critical dialogue around the role of open-ended materials and how they might provoke or challenge children to think and learn

Day 2:

• Explore creative ways to plan and design the learning environment in negotiation with children that include the use of photography and plasticine sculpture
• Rethink traditional practices in the learning environment by engaging in a process that invites questioning of our teaching assumptions and goal setting to address barriers
• Engage in an environment audit and discuss plans for change that will invite whole school conversations through the Charrette Process
• Practice he SNOWBALL technique in an effort to tackle environmental design challenges
• Critique outdoor landscapes that invite children to investigate the natural world

Trainer’s Profile
Louise J. is a professor in the Bachelor of Child development degree program at Seneca College. Louise has a Masters of Education in Teaching and Learning with a research focus on teacher reflection and educational technologies and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education. Louise has been inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach to education for young children and was privileged to travel to Reggio Emilia on a study tour where this inspiration grew. In addition to her teaching, Louise has facilitated workshops and conferences with early childhood practitioners and elementary school teachers. Most recently, she has focused on professional learning centred on pedagogical documentation, emergent curriculum, Forest Schools, professional learning through social media, making learning visible and Reggio inspired practice.

Methodology
This workshop is composed of opportunities for experiential and collaborative hands-on learning opportunities. Participants will have the opportunity to be fully engaged, interact with colleagues, reflect on, and document their learning in an environment that is supportive and meets an educator’s need to gain practical knowledge that can be applied to teaching practices.

Target Audience
Teachers, early childhood educators and administrators of children aged 2 to 8 years.

Investment 
AUD800.00/pax
AUD700.00/pax if register by 15 Jul 17
  
Other Details
Duration: 2 days, 12 hours
Closing Date: 1 Sep 17