Abstract/Notes: The present study is centered on understanding the gender concepts teachers have, and the form in which their gender perspective is related to the way teachers of a Mexican Montessori elementary school interact with their students according to the child's gender in the early elementary school years. The type of messages teachers are sending to children when they are in the classroom in relation to the concepts of masculinity and feminity are discussed. The analysis is rooted in qualitative research methodology and the gender category. Gender is seen as a social phenomenon. The paper deals with the work that has been done in gender and schools, especially related to the role teachers have when dealing with gender in the classroom. It discusses how a different method of education, in this case the Montessori method, differs from the traditional system of education when dealing with gender issues. The way teachers deal with gender issues at school is deeply connected to the viewpoint of gender they have. The narratives of the teachers help us understand this relation. It is hoped that by examining their own practice toward gender issues teachers will take a first step towards a non-sexist education. It is true that the Montessori system breaks from many of the conventional gender-biased practices of traditional schools; even so, a total change cannot be seen until our own perspectives on gender evolve.

Language: English

Published: Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 2002

Abstract/Notes: Montessori teacher education includes an intensive and ongoing teacher transformation. This experience aids in the development of a clearly defined teacher identity. Research on teacher identity broadly has shown that while such an identity can offer guidance and support, it can also limit teachers and prevent them from exploring other strategies that may support them and, in turn, their students (e.g., Beauchamp & Thomas, 2009; Britzman, 2003; Sumsion, 2002). This effect is problematic when teachers face moments of uncertainty and dilemmas in their teaching practice. As Montessori classrooms become increasingly diverse, teachers may need to adopt identities that are not explicitly defined in Montessori teacher transformation. This review of literature examines components of a Montessori teacher identity and, broadly, the effects of teacher identity as well as elements of antibias and antiracist teacher-identity development that includes inner reflection and an activist approach to teaching.

Language: English

DOI: 10.17161/jomr.v5i2.8183

ISSN: 2378-3923

Abstract/Notes: Montessori spaces and materials have often been framed as “gender neutral” or devoid of gendering practices, but there is a lack of research that has critically engaged with gender in Montessori contexts. This chapter explores current efforts to bring gender and sexuality into the conversation in Montessori circles. Using Maria Montessori’s feminist legacy as a springboard, the need for a sustained engagement with contemporary feminist research to complicate understandings of gender is justified. By utilizing contemporary feminist lens, the gender-neutral status of Montessori materials is ruffled and gender within Montessori practice and theory is re-thought as performative, relational, multiple, situated, and complex.

Language: English

Published: New York, New York: Bloomsbury Academic, 2023

ISBN: 978-1-350-27561-4 978-1-350-27560-7 978-1-350-27562-1

Series: Bloomsbury Handbooks

Abstract/Notes: This research sought to determine the effect of implementing an anti-bias curriculum on the selfidentity of children in a private primary Montessori classroom. Twenty-two students aged three to six from a highly concentrated urban community in a northeastern coastal city participated in the study. Pre and post discussion questions, a running log of personal observations, visible child-produced artifacts, and an attribute checklists were the four tools used in this study. These tools determined the effect of the anti-bias work on each child’s ability to self-identify. The interactions and artifacts produced specific and traceable data on children’s thoughts and perceptions before and during the implementation of anti-bias work. Data analysis concluded that the study impacted the student’s ability to self-identify positively. To further investigate this work, I will continue to present anti-bias materials, engage in discussions, and provide diverse works for all children to explore in the inclusive environment.

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2017

Abstract/Notes: This action research investigated the effect of Writing Workshop on the writing proficiency and confidence of intermediate Montessori students. The study took place in a public community school of a major Canadian city with 24 participants of a grade 4, 5, and 6 Montessori classroom. Research was conducted over a six-week period and implemented Calkins, Ochs, and Luick’s (2017) Up the Ladder Writing Workshop Narrative Unit. Data was collected using writing samples scored by adapted 6+1 Traits of Writing Rubrics and students’ self-assessed scores using adapted 6+1 Traits of Writing Student Rubrics, adapted Bottomley et al.’s (1997/1998) Writer Self-Perception Scales, writing surveys, and observational field notes. The data demonstrated an increase in writing proficiency in 96% of students and feeling confident most of the time or always when writing by 31%. This action research recommends further research be done to supplement the Montessori language arts curriculum with Writing Workshop.

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2020

Abstract/Notes: With very few records- like certificates or diplomas that document typical life achievements-the timeline of her life is a bit blurry and fluid, like clouds passing over the sun. The memories that are more difficult to face and let go of hang on, wriggling on their branches as long as possible, even willing to endure the coldest winter weather. [...]with no family living in the U.S., my grandmother had no outlets or support systems in place to work through the trauma she experienced as a child. Today, my mother is a successful assistant vice president at a large hospital system in Northern Kentucky. [...]I have come full circle: through all of my cycles of experience in Montessori school, I have returned to the Early Childhood realm as a guide, and this is where I have chosen to remain.

Language: English

ISSN: 1054-0040

Abstract/Notes: Discusses identity as the development of functional and intellectual independence and as an involvement in such aspects of life as intimacy, sexuality, and vocation that give one a sense of belonging to the world. Suggests that establishing identity is an on-going process. Describes the Montessori professional's identity as director or directress, teacher, and guide. (BC)

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

Abstract/Notes: The present study is an exploration of the situation of the education of Tibetan refugees in India and the interrelationship between issues of education, culture, ethnic identity and opportunity in exile. The central theme of this study is that education, economic opportunities and perceptions of ethnic identity of refugees in the host country are closely related with the experience of refugeeism and the entire gamut of pre- migrational and post-migrational experiences.

Language: English

Published: New Delhi, 2007

Language: German

Published: Münster, Germany: Lit, 2002

ISBN: 978-3-8258-5746-2

Series: Impulse der Reformpädagogik , 7