Study Abroad

Reggio Emilia Study Tour (Graduate students only)

May 1 - 9, 2009

Study early childhood education in Italy with Professor Edyth Wheeler. The seminar is based in Reggio nell'Emilia in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy between Milan and Florence near Bologna. Birthplace of the modern Italian flag, the city has it's origins in Roman times. The Reggio Emilia method is world famous for its innovative approach to a child's potential.

"The curriculum is not child centered or teached directed. The curriculum is child originated and teacher framed... We have given great care in selecting the term 'negotiated curriculum' instead of emergent of child centered curriculum. We propose that 'negotiated curriculum' better captures the constructive, continual, and reciprocal relation among teachers, children, and parents and better captures the negotiations among subject matter: representational media and the children's current knowledge."

Participants will learn about the background and history of the Reggio Emilia educational paradigm as well as projections for the future. The program features visits to preschools and infant-toddler centers and presentations by pedagogistas, teachers and atelieristas on the values and principles of the Reggio philosophy. Students will also have the opportunity to interact with other participants and Reggio educators and immerse themselves in the local culture. Hotel accommodation in double occupancy rooms with daily breakfast is included.

Instructor: Dr. Edyth Wheeler, Towson University Department of Early Childhood Education.

Course: ECED 794 (3 credits).

Cost:* $4,990. Includes tuition (3 credits), health insurance, housing, daily breakfast and roundtrip airfare. Students will be responsible for their own meals. Additional costs include $150 study abroad fee, meals, and personal expenses.

*The Towson University Study Abroad Office reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.

Application Deadline: APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 30, 2008. If interested, please contact the Study Abroad Office to find out if space is still available.

Application Process: Fill out an application (PDF) and submit it to the TU Study Abroad Office. $500 deposit required at time of application. Non-TU students must also submit a completed Application for Graduate School (PDF) to the Study Abroad Office.

For Further Information: Contact Dr. Edyth Wheeler , Early Childhood Education, 410-704-2460 or the TU Study Abroad Office.

Study Abroad Office
Administration Building, 2nd Floor
Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Phone: 410-704-2451

Fax: 410-704-4703
Email: studyabroad@towson.edu