Differences between Montessori and Traditional Education
Differences between Montessori and Traditional teaching
When we address education, we retrieve memories of our own experience and decide what we want for our children. If there is much choice, it could make a school selection harder and yet, if the selection is limited comparisons become critical.
Below is a basic comparison of what we perceive are differences between the traditional education system and Montessori schools. For better understanding and to ‘get a feeling’ of the school, parents should take the time to personally observe how a school and classroom function and assess the relevance of an educational program for their child.
|
Montessori Education
|
Traditional Education |
|
Whole school philosophy & methodology |
Programs define methodology and often philosophy |
|
Developmental approach for each stage of learning |
Curriculum based learning – same for all |
|
Focus on all aspects of development: social, emotional, physical and intellectual |
Instruction is mostly based on academic achievement |
|
Learning at own pace: choice of how long to work on a specific concept |
Adult decision of when new topics are introduced |
|
Children actively involved in own learning |
Adults direct all learning |
|
Intrinsic motivation is fostered: no rewards or punishments |
Rewards and punishments still used to encourage/discourage student behaviours |
|
Self-discipline is grown through methodology |
Discipline is imposed by adults and rules |
|
Experiential learning through manipulation and real experiences |
The curriculum guides direction of learning |
|
Children are held accountable and responsible for their learning |
The adult is responsible for outcomes reached |
|
Uninterrupted work cycles |
Time table dictates length and type of lessons |
|
Multi-age classrooms |
Same age groups |
|
Student teach with the adult |
Adult teaches the group |
|
The environment includes scientific equipment for the acquisition of concepts (hands-on learning) |
Learning is mainly acquired through visual information |
|
The environment is the child’s space to work where they feel comfortable |
Set seating and restricted movement during work time |
To understand the learning approach more effectively, come and visit and ask to observe in our classrooms. We are here to share what we do.
Yvonne Rinaldi
Principal
Caboolture Montessori School
