Abstract/Notes: John McNamara shares his wisdom and humbly credits Camillo Grazzini, Jenny Höglund, and David Kahn for his growth in Montessori. Recognizing more than what he has learned from his mentors, he shares the lessons he has learned from his students themselves. Math, science, history, and language are so integrated in the curriculum that students comment they don't even think whether they are doing science or math. A schedule that allows time for students to follow a query to a conclusion is vital to the kinds of discoveries John's students make, such as a shortcut for multiplying binomials or reconfiguring cubing materials that made even John marvel at student independence and innovation. A bibliography is included. [This paper was presented at the NAMTA conference titled "A Montessori Integrated Approach to Science, Mathematics, Technology, and the Environment" in Portland, OR, Mar 31-Apr 3, 2016.]

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734

Abstract/Notes: The purpose of this research was to examine whether the implementation of mindfulness breathing exercises aided in emotional self-regulation. This study incorporated various breathing techniques five days a week for five to ten minutes each day. The six-week study involved 14 children between the ages of 9 and 12 years in a private Montessori school in the southern region of the United States. Data collection included daily observations of the breathing exercises, pre and post-behavioral self-assessments, a daily reflection tool by the researcher, and a student feedback form. Results showed an increase in regulated behavior and breathing techniques being used by deregulated students. The pre and post-behavioral self-assessment showed an increase in positive self-perception as well as a shift in self-control, responsibility, respect, behavior, and self-esteem. The daily observations showed an increase in calm and focus during the morning and afternoon work cycles after implementation at the beginning of both work cycles. 69% of participants felt mindfulness breathing helped as well as 61% enjoyed mindfulness breathing. Two students independently practiced breathing techniques to help them regulate. The data showed a positive correlation between the implementation of mindfulness breathing techniques and self-regulation in children ages 9 to 12. Suggestions for further research include consistent observation time, implementation of a variety of mindfulness activities including yoga or listening to calming music and having a calm place in the classroom to integrate mindfulness practices

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2022

Abstract/Notes: This study implemented goal setting and self-reflection as self-regulated learning strategies and explored how these affected student work completion and on-task behavior. Students in this environment struggled with self-regulated learning and were observed to not complete work on time and needed redirection to focus on work during the work cycle. The study took place in an upper elementary Montessori environment at a private international school. Thirteen 4th grade students (ages 9-10) participated in the study. During this study, students were given lessons on goal setting and self-reflection and had group discussions about effective goal setting. Students set daily goals for themselves during the study and evaluated their progress at the end of the day. Students met with the guides for pre, mid and post-assessment discussions, where they reflected on their goals and progress. Students were observed twice daily for on and off-task behavior, and follow-up work was checked for completion. Despite the challenges of conducting this study during the COVID-19 pandemic, the results showed that student work completion and on-task behavior increased after students began setting goals. In particular, it proved to be beneficial to students who previously struggled with completing work. Further studies could look into integrating goal setting in a more streamlined manner to increase student engagement and interest.

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2022

Abstract/Notes: Montessori education is uniquely designed to maximize the benefits of seamless educational pathways designed in 3-year increments. Learners benefit academically and socially from three–year mixed-age groupings. It is accepted practice for public Montessori schools to maintain the integrity of three-year cycles through the 6th grade.

Language: English

Published: Washington, D.C., Jul 7, 2016

Abstract/Notes: 2009 conference in Virginia

Language: English

Language: English

Abstract/Notes: The desire to learn with our hands is an innate human trait. Sociocultural theory presented by Lev Vygotsky laid the foundation of the importance of hands-on learning, which is still prevalent in current trends within the field of education. When focusing on the whole child, sociocultural theory supports the many facets that comprise the human being. The evolution of skills deemed necessary in the current era, challenges schools to implement dynamic curricula in order to foster 21st century skills in students. While there is not substantial research to support the use of handwork in the Upper Elementary Montessori classroom (multi-age setting for 4th-6th grades), there is significant research that demonstrates the importance of creativity, discipline, independence, self-efficacy, and social cooperation as skills to develop for this age group. The purpose of this study was to examine and evaluate the impact of handwork as an experience with upper elementary students between the ages of nine and twelve as a means to develop contemporary soft skills of creativity, discipline, independence, self-efficacy, and social cooperation which together support pre-adolescent brain development. Through the use of qualitative (observations) and quantitative instruments (surveys), this research was intended to validate the impact of Practical Life activities in development of these skills. However; due to school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, the study had to be terminated. Based on the short period of intervention and researcher’s time with students, the following generalized conclusions about handwork and development of soft skills is that there is a positive effect.

Language: English

Published: River Falls, Wisconsin, 2022

Language: English

ISSN: 1522-9734