Environment as the Third Teacher – SCEC Innovative Learning Environments

Environment as the Third Teacher is a concept derived from Reggio Emilia where the instructive power of the environment is used as a “third teacher” to communicate the values of the “hidden curriculum”, or present aspects of the formal curriculum though the display of stimulus materials, learning props and exploratory objects.

Undertaking deeper consideration of the environment can enable teachers to conceptualise their role less as a teacher controlling the group, and more as a partner with the children in the social construction of knowledge, and the exploration of working theories and areas of interest.

Enhancing the physical environment and reflecting on the ways in which the core curriculum underpins learning can dramatically alter children’s learning experiences.