| In this interpretive phenomenological research study, making meaning of teachers and children's experiences of Reggio-inspired documentation takes center stage. Reggio-inspired documentation is a way of visually stabilizing and bringing meaning to experiences, ideas, thoughts and the daily interactions of children and adults (Bonilauri & Rubizzi, 2010; Filippini, Trancossi & Vecchi, 2009; Guidici et al, 2001; Rinaldi, 2006). Collecting research in The School of Inspiration elementary program brings to light the many experiences and possible meanings of Reggio-inspired documentation. The study's participants consist of 2 teachers, 45 children, and me, as a participant researcher, all developing the meaning over time.;Utilizing observations, photographs, field notes, journal writing and interviews, I documented this research study over a number of months. During this time, I spent hours in the environment listening, observing and taking photographs and then reflecting back on the experiences. The many experiences developed into three essential themes, transformation and growth, noble lives, and connections. The documentation experiences and the beautiful representations of learning and relationships built layers and moments that scaffold upon each other. A deeper look inside these experiences revealed how each child and teacher fostered a relationship with documentation carefully considering their daily reflection. Reflection led to implications for possible futures in elementary education such as maintaining intentional reflection, developing an academic journey and design and fostering group identity. |
