UNF students explore early childhood education in Italy
This summer, faculty from the University of North Florida’s Silverfield College of Education and Human Services led undergraduate and graduate students on an immersive study abroad trip to Umbria, Italy. Coordinated by Drs. Adrien Malek-Lasater and Katrina Hall, along with Kaitlyn Richards from UNF’s International Center, the program focused on holistic approaches to early childhood education and child development.
Over ten days, the group explored the interconnectedness of education, environment, culture and community across several historic towns including Corciano, Perugia, Assisi and Lake Trasimeno. Their home base was Villa Pieve Country House, hosted by internationally recognized artist and educator Rossella Vasta. Students experienced Italy’s philosophy of education not only through classroom visits but also through food, art, history and daily life.
A highlight of the trip was teaching English at Corciano Kindergarten using evidence-based strategies, giving students hands-on experience alongside Italian teachers and education leaders. These hands-on teaching experiences were supported by meetings with local education leaders and officials, providing valuable insight into Italian educational practices.
The group also visited institutions central to Italian educational history and philosophy, including the Montessori International Center, the Università degli Stranieri and the Biblioteca San Matteo degli Armeni, home to the library of renowned education advocate Aldo Capitini. These visits deepened students’ understanding of whole-child education as a living, evolving practice rooted in respect for the child, the environment and community life.
Cultural experiences were equally rich. From touring the Museum of Memory and historic religious sites in Assisi to learning about the resistance efforts during WWII on Isola Maggiore, the trip offered a powerful lens on civic responsibility, human rights and intergenerational storytelling. The group also engaged in creative, hands-on learning experiences, making terracotta medallions inspired by local artisan Magnini, taking a pasta-making class at a biodynamic farm and exploring traditional vinegar production in Modena.
In Bologna and Reggio Emilia, students visited the Loris Malaguzzi International Center, a hub for the promotion of children’s rights and the globally celebrated Reggio Emilia approach to education. Dr. Malek-Lasater, who also serves as Director of Professional Development and Research at the UNF Preschool, helped students connect the philosophy of the Reggio approach with their own emerging teaching practices.
“This trip helped me see how whole-child education goes far beyond academics,” one student reflected. “It’s about honoring every part of a child’s identity, curiosity and capacity to learn.”
Another student reflected, “Nutrition, food, and health weren’t just subjects, they were daily routines, deeply tied to a sense of respect for the body, the community and the world around us.”
Students also noted how the physical environment shaped learning. “Spaces that are calm, beautiful and respectful send a message: children deserve dignity and care.”
The trip also served as the foundation for growing international partnerships. Dr. Hall and Dr. Wendy Baker, Director of Clinical Practice and Education Partnerships, are currently working to establish professional development and internship opportunities in Corciano for UNF students and local educators.
Looking ahead, Dr. Hall will return to Italy in Spring 2026 with Dr. Sarah Mattice (Department of Philosophy) to lead a new interdisciplinary program exploring the connections between philosophy and holistic education. Students interested in this or future teaching abroad opportunities in Italy can contact Dr. Hall at khall@unf.edu.
