Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: This is a compilation of Kripalani's articles that appeared in NAMTA Journal from Summer 1999 through Spring 2009. 'Montessori in Practice' is a prequel to this that includes her writings in NAMTA Journal from Winter 1989 through Fall 1998.

Language: English

Published: Santa Rosa, California: Montessori Services, 2011

ISBN: 978-0-9824533-2-2

Abstract/Notes: Once the reasons for habitual observation in the classroom have been established, and the intent to observe has been settled, the practical details of observation must be organized. In this article, O'Shaughnessy gives us a model for the implementation of observation. She thoroughly reviews Montessori's work curves and how they can be used to show the development of the child through four stages of concentration. O'Shaughnessy discusses how these work curves can be used to aid the practice of observation, and she has embedded case studies to clarify her points. She offers practical tools and tips for use in recording observation and points of awareness, including the documentation for the observation of errors in order to understand the obstacles a child is encountering. Constant attention must be given to the point of contact between the child and the environment so that we are ever conscious of our role in facilitating that most important interaction that will allow the child's potential to unfold.

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: The adult who is inexperienced in the art of observation may, even with the best intentions, react to a child's behavior in a way that hinders instead of helping the child's development. Kripalani outlines the need for training and practice in observation in order to "understand the needs of the children and...to understand how to remove obstacles." To this end, she outlines a technique for practicing observation. She also lists the different aspects to be observed in the classroom and discusses points of awareness in the observation of each. [Reprinted with permission from "AMI Communications" 1 (1987): 2-11.]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: Just as the classroom guide must prepare for observation in the classroom, so too should parents prepare themselves for classroom observation. What is the purpose of their observation? What is the procedure? What should they note? What points of awareness should they keep in mind? Using the format of a letter to parents preparing to observe in a classroom, Judy Shepps Battle answers these questions and provides a tool for schools to use for parent observations. [Reprinted from "The NAMTA Journal" 13.1 (1987-88): 43-49.]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: Grazia Honegger Fresco gives us direct observations of her daughter from birth to eight months, grouping her observations by age even further into birth to fourth month, fifth and sixth months, and seventh and eighth months. Within each age range, she focuses on Sara's sensory life and her relationships. Her observations are detailed and gentle as she strives to be free of preconceived judgements. She offers a lovely example of what it means to use observation as a tool to learn the inner life of the child. [Reprinted from "The NAMTA Journal" 15.3 (1990): 50-57.]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: Helfrich addresses two perspectives from which to think about observation in the classroom: that of the teacher observing her classroom, her group, and its needs, and that of the outside observer coming into the classroom. Offering advice from her own experience, she encourages and defends both. Do not be afraid of the disruption of outside visitors, she tells us, for "Children are the most adaptive, flexible, go with the moment creatures I know. They love having observers because it validates for them the specialness of the work they are engaged in. Let them share this love of their work with others. You can also share your love of this work with others." [Paper presented at the "Observation: The Key to Unlocking the Child's Potential," North American Montessori Teachers' Association (NAMTA) Conference, Part 2 (Denver, CO, November 5-8, 2015).]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

Published: Calcutta, India: [s.n.], 1965