Millikin University's
Education Innovation Immersion
Exploration of the Innovative MOF Methodology & Reggio Emilia
Appropriate for K-12 Educators
& Higher Education Faculty and Administrators
20 CPDU's (Illinois)
Urbania, Urbino & Bologna, Italy • June 20–28, 2026
$3,595 (double occupancy) + airfare
Deadline to reserve your spot: January 15, 2026
Learn More & Apply
Witness Education Innovation in Action
Join us for an immersive nine-day experience where you'll step inside real educational programs —from Pre-K through higher education—and explore how the Finnish-inspired MOF (Modello Organizzativo Finlandese) methodology is transforming Italian education. You will also visit the heart of the Reggio Emilia movement and engage with global education innovators. This isn't just theory; it's innovation in practice.
Italy serves as a living laboratory where Finnish core principles—learner-centered pedagogy, flexible learning structures, and inclusive assessment—are adapted and tailored to a distinct cultural context. You'll observe, participate, and engage directly with educators who are reshaping what school can be.
Program Highlights
  • Real educational observations and participation
  • Interactive workshops with MOF and Reggio Emilia educators
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Global peer collaboration
  • Cultural immersion in Urbania, Urbino & Bologna
Meet Your Facilitators
Dr. Denice Love
Associate Professor of Elementary Education at Millikin University with over 30 years of experience spanning special education teaching, corporate training, and curriculum development. Her research focuses on fostering achievement for students with special needs and effective elementary instruction.
She earned her Ed.D. in Human Development & Psychology from Harvard Graduate School of Education and brings deep expertise in creating inclusive, effective learning environments.
Julienne Shields
Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and a passionate advocate for joyful education. With 15 years implementing impactful programs for youth and adults, Julienne brings experience as a tech entrepreneur, educational innovator, and nonprofit executive.
She holds an MBA from Millikin and is currently pursuing a master's certificate in Artificial Intelligence, combining entrepreneurial thinking with cutting-edge educational practice.
The Three Pillars of MOF Education
The Finnish-inspired MOF methodology rests on three transformative principles that place learners at the center of their educational journey.
Learner-Centered & Holistic
Students actively participate in shaping their learning through collaboration, choice, and personal growth. Education extends beyond academics to nurture the whole person—intellectually, emotionally, and socially.
Flexible & Integrated Structure
Fewer subjects per day allow for deeper exploration and meaningful connections. Interdisciplinary lessons break down traditional barriers, enabling hands-on, project-based learning that mirrors real-world complexity.
Inclusive & Formative Approach
Cooperation replaces competition. Formative feedback guides continuous improvement, and student well-being is prioritized. Every learner is supported to reach their potential in an environment that celebrates diversity and individual progress.
Program Details & Investment
What's Included
Dates: June 20–28, 2026
Location: Urbania, Urbino & Bologna, Italy
Cost: $3,595 per person (double occupancy)
  • Comfortable lodging throughout your stay
  • Ground transportation between sites
  • Exclusive access to MOF and Reggio Emilia visits
  • 10 curated meals showcasing Italian cuisine
  • Interactive workshops and materials
Airfare not included. Early registration encouraged—space is limited.
Who Should Attend
This transformative experience is designed for:
  • Classroom teachers seeking innovative practices
  • School administrators and leaders
  • Education policymakers and advocates
  • Community stakeholders invested in educational excellence
  • Anyone passionate about reimagining learning

Important Deadline: January 15, 2026
Secure your spot with a $1,000 deposit.
Immersion Schedule
1
June 20-21: Flight to Italy
Flights arrive in Bologna Marconi Airport. Bus transfer on June 21 to Urbania (approx 2.5 hours). Accommodation check-in.
Welcome dinner (meal included)
2
June 22: Intro to MOF
Welcome Ceremony at Centro Studi Italiani. Conversational and cultural Italian session. MOF meeting with the Head of Urbania State School.
Italian Aperitivo (Meal Included)
3
June 23: University Day
Conversational and Cultural Italian session. Visit University of Urbino Education Dept.
Pizza night in Urbino (included)
4
June 24: MOF in practice
Arts and Performance Summer Camp - MOF Observation Day (lunch included on site)
Dinner at Agriturismo Calterrazzano (meal included)
5
June 25-26: Reggio Approach
Bus transfer to Reggio Emilia, hotel check-in + luggage drop off. Two days at Reggio Emilia International Center, and explore Bologna
6
June 27 - Florence excursion
Full-day excursion to Florence (train to and from).
Farewell ceremony + dinner in Bologna
Next Steps and Networking
7
June 28: Farewell
Hotel check-out
Individual transfer to the airport in Bologna.
Additional days encouraged (own expense)
Be the Changemaker in Education
Where Finnish innovation meets Italian creativity—and you bring the future of learning home.
01
Observe & Participate
Enter authentic MOF and Reggio Emilia programs and witness transformative pedagogy firsthand through direct engagement with students and educators.
02
Learn & Collaborate
Engage in interactive workshops and connect with a global community of educators committed to innovation and excellence.
03
Transform & Implement
Return home with practical strategies, renewed passion, and a toolkit to create learning environments where every student thrives.
Ready to join us? Visit millikin.edu/education-innovation-immersion-program-urbania-bologna-italy or contact Julienne Shields at [email protected] for more information.