Language: English

ISSN: 0028-5048

Language: German

Published: Münster, Germany: LIT, 2008

ISBN: 978-3-8258-0850-1

Series: Impulse der Reformpädagogik , 19

Abstract/Notes: This article describes the general principles of the philosophy of Montessori education. The basis of Montessori education is a student-centered learning environment--one that includes provision for an inquisitive, cooperative, safe, and nurturing atmosphere for learning. Students' psychosocial needs must be addressed before their cognitive needs, so that students will enjoy learning and become life-long learners. Montessori education has developed two sets of practices with regard to teacher preparation and classroom environment that facilitate student-centered environments. Montessori teacher education programs focus on training teachers in observational skill and child development. Teachers are educated in developmental levels and in matching appropriate skills and activities to levels. Appropriate materials facilitate the development of physical, intellectual, and social independence. Characteristics of the Montessori classroom include: teachers who are educated in the Montessori method; partnership with the family; a multi-aged, multi-graded, heterogeneous grouping of students; a diverse set of Montessori materials, activities, and experiences; a schedule that allows time for problem solving; connections between knowing and creating; and a classroom atmosphere that encourages social interaction for cooperative learning, peer teaching, and emotional development. The paper concludes with comments regarding the positive aspects of multi-age grouping.

Language: English

Published: New York City, NY: American Montessori Society, Oct 1991

Pages: 7 p.

Abstract/Notes: This study examined to what extent Montessori early childhood education programs in one geographical region of the United States could be classified into homogeneous clusters based on teachers’ reported practices associated with Montessori education. Once identified, the characteristics defining each subgroup were described, and factors supporting or hindering the implementation of recommended practices were examined. Of particular interest was whether the teachers were intentionally or inadvertently making changes to the model, and if modifications were being made, whether these were due to situational factors or to viewpoints that differed from Montessori’s perspectives. Teachers’ beliefs about managing and motivating children were also assessed in relation to their interpretation of the Montessori method in order to examine what role, if any these beliefs played in shaping classroom practices.

Language: English

Published: Berkeley, California, 2004

Language: English

ISSN: 0571-1142