Abstract/Notes: In their education forum "Evaluating Montessori education" (29 Sept., p. 1893), A. Lillard and N. Else-Quest do not consider that differential peer influences between their test and control groups of students may contribute to the differences they observed. The authors controlled for parental effects by examining only students whose parents had entered a lottery for entry into a Montessori school. However, the students who were unable to attend the Montessori school because their parents "lost" the lottery were dispersed to traditional schools, where they would have been educated with a majority of peers whose parents did not enter the lottery at all. The differences they found in the academic and behavioral performance of students in Montessori and traditional schools may not reflect the superiority of the former educational approach, but the negative effect of peer relationships in the latter.

Language: English

DOI: 10.1126/science.315.5812.596b

ISSN: 0036-8075, 1095-9203

Abstract/Notes: Reviews research on multiage classroom organization as an option for high-ability students. Studies of cognitive and affective factors have consistently shown positive effect sizes. Discusses conditions under which positive effects are most likely and explores multiage classes as an alternative for high-ability children. (Contains 85 references.) (SLD)

Language: English

ISSN: 0034-6543, 1935-1046

Abstract/Notes: Montessori is a learning method that uses the surrounding environment as a learning resource. This research is aimed at describing how the Montessori method is applied to Mathematics for students who survive Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). The research method used is descriptive qualitative. The research subjects were PDD-NOS grade V SD students in inclusive schools. The research instruments were documentation, observation, and interviews. The results showed that students with PDD-NOS who have delays in communication can more easily accept mathematics learning using the Montessori method. This is supported by the Montessori concept which allows PDD-NOS students to use lego in learning fractions.

Language: English

DOI: 10.31000/prima.v6i1.5300

ISSN: 2580-2216

Abstract/Notes: Good learning environment will bring out qualified students. This study focuses on the Montessori method, which is an approach of education designed to train the students’ independence in learning. The study uses descriptive quantitative research design to describe the factors of Montessori classroom environment on the motivation of students in Royal Prime Montessori Elementary School Pekanbaru in academic year 2018/2019. The sample of study is 55 students selected from five classes. The data were collected using questionnaire and observation checklist. This study found five factors influencing the students’ motivational condition, i.e., teacher’s presence, personal attitude, Montessori materials, classroom conditions and friends’ influence. This study revealed that the students taught with this method are active and cooperative during their English learning activities.

Language: English

DOI: 10.31849/reila.v2i2.3165

ISSN: 2685-3906

Language: German

DOI: 10.1024/2235-0977/a000335

ISSN: 2235-0977

Abstract/Notes: The study compares two groups of students who graduated from high school in the Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) during 1997–2001. Students who had participated in MPS Montessori programs from preschool through 5th grade were matched to a comparison group on the basis of gender, SES, race/ethnicity, and high school attended. Data from the ACT and WKCE, as well as overall and subject-specific high school grade point averages, were used in exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Once a model was established, the factors were regressed on the students' demographic characteristics and type of elementary education in a structural equation modeling framework. The Montessori group had significantly higher scores on tests associated with the math/science factor. There were no significant group differences for the factors associated with English/social studies and grade point average.

Language: English

DOI: 10.1080/02568540709594622

ISSN: 0256-8543, 2150-2641

Abstract/Notes: Montessori programs are expanding in public schools, serving a large proportion of African American students. Although recent Montessori research has focused on diverse public school populations, few studies have examined outcomes for African American students at the lower elementary level. This quasi-experimental study compares reading and math achievement for African American third grade students in public Montessori and other magnet schools in a large, urban district in North Carolina. Scores from end-of-grade state tests of reading and math are compared using a multivariate analysis of covariance. No significant difference in math scores was identified, but students in Montessori schools scored significantly higher in reading. This suggests that Montessori lower elementary instruction may be beneficial for African American students.

Language: English

DOI: 10.7709/jnegroeducation.86.4.0439

ISSN: 0022-2984, 2167-6437

Abstract/Notes: This article explores the ways Ngaanyatjarra students in Australia respond to Montessori pedagogy in a remote Aboriginal early childhood context. The article initially presents key literature pertaining to early childhood education, Aboriginal education, and Montessori education in Australia. The qualitative methodology underpinning the research is subsequently outlined. The approach emphasized in this research is that of interpretivism. The data analysis process highlighted three headings: concentration and engagement, student autonomy, and student independence. The findings of this research indicate the potential for Montessori pedagogy as a viable alternative practice of education for remote Aboriginal early childhood contexts, as Montessori pedagogy may align more harmoniously with the cultural dispositions of Ngaanyatjarra students. Finally, recommendations are presented in light of the research.

Language: English

DOI: 10.17161/jomr.v4i2.6715

ISSN: 2378-3923

Abstract/Notes: Poor literacy rates contribute to low school performance for children across America. In particular, low-income schools continue to struggle with declining literacy rates. Issues with literacy are often attributed to lack of reading comprehension. This study tested the effects of choice on reading comprehension in second- and third-grade students at a high-income school and a low-income school. Students were observed while reading silently and aloud to see if either method affected reading comprehension. Data were collected from 32 students before, during, and after reading to determine whether students’ comprehension levels were higher when given opportunities to choose their own books or when they read assigned books. Trials were performed while students read silently and then aloud. Results indicated that students had higher comprehension levels both when they could choose their own books and when they read silently.

Language: English

DOI: 10.17161/jomr.v3i2.6453

ISSN: 2378-3923

Abstract/Notes: Students of color comprise a majority in public Montessori school enrollments around the United States, and practitioners are often asked for evidence of the Montessori Method’s benefits for these students. This article examines the relevant literature related to the experiences of students of color in public Montessori schools. Research finds Montessori education offers both opportunities and limitations for students of color in attending diverse schools, developing executive functions, achieving academically, accessing early childhood education and culturally responsive education, minimizing racially disproportionate discipline, and limiting overidentification for special education. Public Montessori education’s efficacy with students of color may be limited by several factors: the lack of diversity of the teaching staff and culturally responsive teacher education, schools that struggle to maintain racially diverse enrollments, and the challenge of communicating Montessori’s benefits to families with alternative views of education. The review concludes with directions for future research.

Language: English

DOI: 10.17161/jomr.v3i1.5859

ISSN: 2378-3923