Abstract/Notes: To find the evidence for the effectiveness of Montessori in improving children development. Systematic search was done on the PubMed, Cochrane library, Web of science, PEDro, Scopus and Google Scholar databases till May 2021. Manual search was also done to find relevant studies. Two authors independently assessed retrieved records and studies against the eligibility criteria specified for this review, then extracted data from the included studies and assess studies methodological quality by using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINOR) scale for the clinical studies and the national institute of health (NIH) tool for observational designs. Eighteen studies were included; fifteen on normal children and three on children with communication disorders, autism and attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD). Quality of 5 clinical studies rated as moderate and 7 was poor, while the quality of 5 observational studies was fair and only 1 was poor. These included studies have different outcomes including gross and fine motor skills, executive function, activity of daily living and cognitive skills. Meta-analysis was not appropriate because of the included studies heterogeneity descriptive analysis indicated that Montessori seems to be effective in improving child development. Based on this review findings the present evidence promise an effective role of Montessori for improving child development. More well-designed primary studies are recommended to find clear evidence.

Language: English

ISSN: 0387-5547

Language: English

Abstract/Notes: This research study explored the effects of using nature-based space and materials on the children’s concentration levels in an early childhood Montessori environment. Nineteen 3-6-year-olds participated in the study for four weeks. The researcher designed and implemented two interventions, nature-based space and nature-based materials, inside an early childhood Montessori environment. The purpose was to holistically improve the children’s concentration levels by being exposed to a nature-based area and materials. The data collection process relied on four qualitative and quantitative data tools: tally sheets, general observational notes, rate sheets, and measurement notes. The data analyzed in this research study suggests exposing young children to both nature-based space and materials in the learning environment is beneficial to their concentration levels. Lastly, the researcher considers further investigation of the effects of being exposed to nature and technology on the children’s brain by using scientific devices to read and interpret the brain activity.

Language: English

Published: St. Paul, Minnesota, 2020

Abstract/Notes: Intellectual disability is a serious lifelong disability that places heavy demands on society and the health system. The study was designed to determine the extent to which the intellectually challenged children are capable of improving their cognitive abilities as well as adaptive functioning through the Montessori Sensorial Training program when introduced in a different setting (i.e. special education school system). With randomised control trial (RCT) of pre-and post-testing, 30 children with mild intellectual disabilities were randomly allocated to Montessori Sensorial Training intervention condition (n = 15) and waitlist control condition (n = 15). The intervention group showed significant improvement in cognitive abilities (i.e. classification, seriation, recognition, ordination, and visual and auditory discrimination) as compared to the control group at post-assessment. Children who received training also showed improvement in communication and self-care domain as compared to the control group. This study provides evidence that Montessori Sensorial Training is not only effective for children going to mainstream schools but also for children with intellectual disabilities. Despite some limitations, the results of the study are encouraging and suggesting that Montessori Sensorial Training is an effective intervention to facilitate self-based learning, independence, and decision-making skills in children with mild intellectual disabilities.

Language: English

DOI: 10.1080/1034912X.2021.2016657

ISSN: 1034-912X

Abstract/Notes: Includes selected excerpts from the English translation of the Italian text "Educazione e pace" [Education and Peace] (by Maria Montessori) published by the Theosophical Society in India in 1943.

Language: English

Published: Altoona, Pennsylvania: Parent Child Press, 1989

ISBN: 0-939195-02-X 978-0-939195-02-2

Language: English

Abstract/Notes: This paper, part of a long term study, reports the effect of a modified Montessori preschool experience on cognitive development, school-related behaviors, and social interactions and perceptions of disadvantaged children. Each of thirty-five disadvantaged Negro children (31 in nursery classes and 4 in elementary classes) was pair-matched with a middle class child. In the disadvantaged group, 17 children were attending nursery classes for the first time. Pre- and posttests were made of cognitive ability, on the Stanford-Binet, Piaget tests of length conservation, and sociometric features. Also, children were rated by testers on performance and by teachers rated classroom behaviors. Data from previous years on some of the children were used in reference to long term change. Part I (nursery school) test results show that neither first nor second-year children significantly increased their I.Q. scores. Both disadvantaged and middle class children scored similarly on task orientation. Middle class children showed more friendship choices forming across social-class lines. Part II (elementary school) results present limited support for the theory that children who continue in Montessori, rather than public, school will show better school achievement. Data included school records of more than 30 children. A future study will investigate diffusion effects on mothers and younger siblings, and testing with measures more directly relevant to Montessori curriculum. (NH)

Language: English

Published: Washington, D.C., Aug 31, 1969

Abstract/Notes: Includes introductory Letter to the Editor

Language: English

Language: English

Language: English

ISSN: 1071-6246