MONTESSORI VS. CONVENTIONAL CLASSROOM

Known for individually paced learning and fostering independence, the Montessori vs. Conventional Classroom encourages empathy, a passion for social justice, and a joy in lifelong learning! Given the freedom and support to question, to probe deeply, and to make connections, Montessori students become confident, enthusiastic, self-directed learners. Students are able to think critically, work collaboratively, and act boldly—a skill set for the 21st century. Dr. Montessori emphasized learning through all five senses, not just through conventional listening, watching, or reading. Children in Montessori classes learn at their own, individual pace, one-to-one lesson instruction, according to their own choice of activities from hundreds of possibilities. Learning is an exciting process of discovery, leading to concentration, motivation, self-discipline, and a love of learning. Montessori classes place children in three-year age groups, forming communities in which the older children spontaneously share their knowledge with the younger ones over three years, culminating in the Montessori Kindergarten year. Montessori represents an entirely different approach to learning.  How does this happen?

•    Each child is valued as a unique individual. Montessori education recognizes that children learn in different ways and accommodates all learning styles. Students are free to learn at their own pace, each advancing as he is ready, guided by the teacher and an individualized learning plan.

•    Beginning at an early age, Montessori nurtures order, concentration, and independence. Intentional classroom design, materials, and daily routines support the student's emerging "self-regulation" (the ability to educate one's self and to think about what one is learning), in toddlers through adolescents.

•    Students are part of a close, caring community. The multi-age classroom—typically spanning 3 years—re-creates a family structure. Older students enjoy stature as mentors and role models; younger children feel supported and gain confidence about the challenges ahead. Teachers model respect, loving-kindness, and a peaceful conflict resolution.

•    Montessori students enjoy freedom within limits. Working within parameters set by their teachers and the classroom community, students are active participants in deciding what their focus of learning will be. 

•    Students are supported in becoming active seekers of knowledge. Teachers provide environments where students have the freedom and the tools to pursue answers to their own questions. Internal satisfaction drives the child's curiosity and interest and results in joyful learning that is sustainable over a lifetime.

•    Self-correction and self-assessment are an integral part of the Montessori classroom approach. As they mature, students learn to look critically at their work and become adept at recognizing, correcting, and learning from their errors.

•    Montessori supports social-emotional skills. Contemporary research supports the 100-year-old Montessori Method's effectiveness, indicating that children who learn in Montessori classrooms demonstrate more persuasive social-emotional skills in many areas than children in more-traditional environments.