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Start an OVL Group
A Drawing of Plants What members are saying about Ohio Voices for Learning

"The study group is more than studying a way of being with children.
It is contemplating a way of being in the world."

"For me, the familiar imagery of ever-widening ripples created by the toss of a pebble best represents the forces of the study group process."

"I thought I had to be the expert for the children. I have learned that it is important to be a co-learner and researcher with the children."
OVL Form a Group Step One

Intitial Contact

Know someone already in a study group? Contact them and ask for the name of their facilitator. We encourage all interested parties to participate in existing study groups if possible. If there are no study groups in your area, and you wish to pursue forming a new group, reflect on the following questions:

  • Do you have an interest in or have you practiced inquiry based learning experiences with young children?
  • Have you read about or have a desire to learn more about the schools of Reggio Emilia and the philosophy that guides their understanding of how children learn?
  • Are you an advocate of project based learning within developmentally appropriate practices and possess a desire to study and articulate with others in a study group?
  • Have you participated in and do you value the teacher's role as an advocate for young children and their families?
  • Are you willing to spend time each month in a study group as an active member making contributions to the group process and documenting your learning process?
OVL Form a Group Step Two

Petitioning

Once you have reflected on the five questions from step one, compose a written response to all five, discussing your current understanding or position regarding each, and send it to us at:

ohiovoicesforlearning@gmail.com
with the subject heading of
New Study Group Petition: Attn: Professional Development Chair

Be certain to include name and mailing address of a contact person for your proposed group.
OVL Form a Group Step Three

Starter Kit

Once received, your petition goes to committee for review.

Once selected, a New Study Group Application and Starter Kit will be mailed to qualifying groups. The application must be returned within one month for final approval to be received.

OVL Form a Group Step Four

Charter Group Creation

Congratulations! Upon receipt of your New Study Group Application, further information will be sent to you. Each new study group is assigned a mentor for their first year of operation to assist in facilitation and implementation of the study group process. Get ready to grow as both a professional and advocate for young children!

Ohio Voices for Learning: A Reggio Inspired Forum.
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