<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The neutrality of this article is disputed . Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page . Please do not remove this message until conditions to do so are met . (April 2016) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> The neutrality of this article is disputed . Relevant discussion may be found on the talk page . Please do not remove this message until conditions to do so are met . (April 2016) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational philosophy focused on preschool and primary education . It is a pedagogy described as student - centered and constructivist that utilizes self - directed, experiential learning in relationship - driven environments . The program is based on the principles of respect, responsibility, and community through exploration and discovery through a self - guided curriculum . At its core is an assumption that children form their own personality during early years of development and are endowed with "a hundred languages", through which they can express their ideas . The aim of the Reggio approach is to teach how to use these symbolic languages (e.g., painting, sculpting, drama) in everyday life . It was developed after World War II by psychologist Loris Malaguzzi and parents in the villages around Reggio Emilia, Italy, and derives its name from the city . </P> <P> During the post-World War II era in Italy, the "...desire to bring change and create anew" accompanied great economic and social development, including in education . </P>

Where did the reggio emilia approach come from