ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the concept of children and teachers as researchers and the ways in which research is viewed as an ordinary, everyday process rather than a specialised activity. The use of large, medium and small group arrangements is illustrated with reference to a group of preschool-age children. The aim of the teachers is to develop their own understanding of how children learn, and how group dynamics operate, in order to provide more meaningful learning situations. In Reggio, the concept of group learning has been developed in a particular way to support the philosophy and the pedagogy. Group learning influence the ongoing learning of the individuals that make up the group has itself been the subject of a long-term collaborative research project between Reggio Children and Project Zero at Harvard University. The chapter presents a detailed and fascinating insight into the principles, organisation and management of the educational process in the infant-toddler centres and preschools of Reggio Emilia.
