If you’re confused about how Montessori learning differs from traditional education, you’ve come to the right place. This article will go over the basic principles behind Montessori curriculums, including that teachers are guides rather than instructors. The classroom environment is also prepared beforehand based on the needs of each child, and the materials are designed to encourage self-correction and education. As a result, the 2000 Days Montessori Learning approach focuses on social-emotional development, not simply academic performance.
Focus on social-emotional development.
The focus of Montessori curriculums on social-emotional development is evident in the first moments of your child’s entry into a Montessori classroom. A child enters a Montessori environment with an instant sense of belonging, and it’s easy to see how that feeling translates into self-regulation. The freedom to make choices is reflected in the environment, and the consequences of those choices are also apparent.
The following principles are the cornerstones of Montessori education: independence and self-regulation are key. The philosophy behind Montessori education is to “follow the child.” Therefore, an instructor’s lesson plans may include goals and ideas based on each child’s learning style. Children with special needs are also supported in their learning styles. While a Montessori experience is generally positive, a few aspects of the Montessori culture can make the environment uncomfortable for some children.
Montessori teachers are guides rather than instructors.
A Montessori teacher is often referred to as a “guide.” They lead their students through their lessons, offering suggestions and answering questions. In contrast to a traditional teacher, a Montessori guide does not give assignments or teach all the children simultaneously. They also have more time to spend with each student. The Montessori method is based on the philosophy that children need to develop their skills and interests, not be handed out assignments by an instructor.
A Montessori classroom environment is a place for children to experience the natural rhythm of learning. Instead of strict rules or artificial time limits, Montessori teachers encourage children to explore their interests, take risks, and work at their own pace. Traditional classroom teachers tend to teach all students at the same speed and fail to account for the differences among children. In addition, Montessori classrooms are flexible with age groups, allowing children to develop at their own pace.
Suit children’s individual needs
A Montessori classroom is designed to suit the individual needs of children. It is prepared in advance using materials chosen based on observations of a child’s unique characteristics and preferences. The Montessori method emphasizes learning by doing rather than memorizing. This method is based on scientific principles that encourage a child to explore, question and discover, which are the hallmarks of learning.
Students enjoy freedom within boundaries. They work within limits that teachers set. Montessorians believe that internal satisfaction fuels a child’s curiosity and leads to joy in learning. They create an environment where students can pursue answers to their questions. Self-correction is a significant feature of the Montessori approach. Students are encouraged to evaluate their work and correct mistakes.
Facilitate self-education and self-correction
Montessori classroom materials support the development of multi-sensory skills, sensory knowledge, and abstract ideas. Montessori classroom materials use a sequential and self-correcting method. Children engage with the materials independently, in pairs, and small groups during a three-hour ‘work cycle.’ The teacher in choosing activities guides children, but they are left to decide where they will work, with whom they will engage, and how long. It allows children to build self-confidence and learn on their own.
The educational philosophy of Maria Montessori was initially rooted in the observation of children. She spent the next 25 years studying children’s behavior in various environments, from pre-schoolers to teenagers. During this time, she observed the needs and preferences of children and designed materials to meet these needs. Today, Montessori classroom materials facilitate self-education and self-correction in education while maintaining the basic structure of a family.
Montessori schools are secular.
While there are many religious differences between Montessori education and conventional education, both general philosophy is the same: the love of people is at the heart of the Montessori approach to learning. Dr. Montessori, who grew up Catholic, was raised in a Christian environment but wrote about and assumed the existence of God. He also traveled the world, studying human development and cultures. Religion is not an overriding theme in a secular Montessori school but rather a part of everyday life.
Another significant difference between Montessori education and traditional education is how the curriculum is structured. Montessori schools promote hands-on learning, while conventional schools focus on academic skills and standardized test performance. Children work together, rather than individually, and are encouraged to be creative. The curriculum is designed to help the child reach his full potential. Traditional education encourages students to study based on a predetermined age range.