Thursday, June 20, 2013

Montessori Philosophy

I have researched the Montessori learning theory since this is the one I am most interested in.  Montessori thrives on the freedom of choice in the early years and I personally think this extremely important in helping children to develop their own sense of what is important and self-confidence in what they are going to do. Hand-on learning, being able to see why and how something works allows students to "see"something instead of simply hearing it and trying to process the information.
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The Montessori philosophy also helps children to see that work isn’t something we should dread as we get older, but something to pursue and become lifelong members to society.  Children are placed in an environment which in conducive to learning without being competitive.  Teachers are able to assess their students using observation instead if competition and tests.  It is also encouraged for students to master their skills with other students in the room, where they are allowed to practice with each other.


Children being able to develop their own self-confidence and discipline, while working individually and in groups allows them not only the freedom of choice, but the development of their own character and outlook.  Maris Montessori saw that “providing a hands-on learning environment that valued choice, concentration, collaboration, community, curiosity, and real-world application produced lifelong learners who viewed "work" as something interesting and fulfilling instead of drudgery to be avoided.”  I think she is a brilliant woman and I couldn’t agree with her philosophy more as she was able to establish this philosophy and many schools have embraced it, and life-long learners are an important part to our society.  Children seeking out to consistently learn and grow is such an amazing thing.

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