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Montessori method of teaching

Dr Maria Montessori created the Montessori Method in the early 1900s. It’s a particular form of infant learning that involves kid-led tasks (known as “work”), classes with kids of different ages, and instructors that support student freedom. Today’s Montessori classrooms adhere to Dr Montessori’s theory, which holds that students learn best when they are making decisions about what to acquire.

Principles of Montessori method of teaching

The essential principle of the entire Montessori approach is respect for the child. In addition, Montessori thought it was important to respect children (a not common practice in the early twentieth century). Consideration for youngsters is demonstrated by refraining from breaking up their focus. Students receive the freedom to make decisions, complete tasks on their own, and acquire knowledge independently, which is another way to demonstrate respect. Instructors must begin to appreciate without passing judgment and provide an example of compassion for all pupils as well as nonviolent dispute resolution.

The foundation of Montessori education is the idea that kids learn new things all the time just by being alive. Youngsters continuously learn about their surroundings via their perceptions. Then, since they are intellectual entities, they make meaning from it.

According to the Montessori educational philosophy, kids are more prepared to master specific abilities at particular times. These are referred to as sensitive times, and they only persist for as long as the youngster needs to learn the skills. Each kid experiences these times differently, both in terms of timing and sequence (for example, a sensitive period for writing). Observing their kids, Montessori instructors must spot their students’ vulnerable times and give them the materials they need to thrive.

According to the Montessori approach, kids learn best in a setting that has been set up so they can take care of themselves. The educational environment should always be child-centered and support children’s independence to investigate whatever resources they choose. Teachers should set up the learning environment by providing kids with experience and resources in a systematic and independent manner.

The idea that kids can educate themselves independently is known as auto education or self-education. Another of the Montessori theory’s core principles is this. Allowing kids to learn independently, Montessori teachers give the setting, motivation, direction, and support.

Multi-age classrooms:

The multi-age classroom is one of the most well-known aspects of a Montessori education. Montessori schools disagree with the idea that children of the same age learn and advance at the same rate, and think that multi-age classes allow kids to work more effectively and at their own speed. Usually, Montessori classes are divided into age groups of three years. Proponents argue that by doing this, kids can acquire superior social skills and intellectual abilities in a collaborative, non-competitive learning atmosphere.

Montessori child study

In the Montessori method, teachers are instructed to carefully observe the lesson and develop individualized lesson plans for each student. They start students in the child study process when new inquiries come up. A family meeting is the first step in the child study process, which entails enlarging the commitment to assist the kid’s requirements. The procedure for an Individualized Education Plan is distinct from child study. A Kid Study is frequently conducted before a Special Education recommendation is made, until a child has already entered their program level. It is a crucial step in assessing the requirements of the student from a balanced perspective.

Members of the family, classroom advisers, other programme level guides, the Heads of School, and other members of the school leadership are typical participants on a Child Study Team. This can guarantee that the youngster and family have access to a large team of people as resources.

The team decides to pursue an individualized education plan after monitoring the use of methods and activities (IEP). The Child Study Team will keep collaborating with caseworkers and other services once the child is assigned to special education to provide the best possible assistance.

Key aspects:

It is an integrative, child-centered educational programme created by Maria Montessori.
The Montessori approach is founded on the idea that kids pick up much of what they need to know from their surroundings and spend very little time listening to their teachers lecture them.
The Montessori approach offers a motivating, kid-focused atmosphere where kids may investigate, feel, and discover without being afraid.

respect every child.
Center learning around the needs of the kids.
Giving children independence will help them learn.

Watch children.
Set up a conducive learning atmosphere.
Introduce learning resources with several senses.

The basic objective of this strategy is to promote auto education.

Characteristics of Montessori method

Some of the basic characteristics of this method are stated below:

The Montessori approach is self-initiating.

It is founded on a profound admiration for each child’s distinct character.
It is founded on children’s fundamental desire to acquire by doing.
Positive, non-threatening, and competitive describe the learning environment.

Exploration, manipulation, repetition, order, abstraction, and communication are all aspects of learning that children engage in during play.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Montessori Method

Advantages:

Children aged between three and six can benefit greatly from this technique.

As the interests and talents of youngsters are adequately taken into account when designing play activities for them, this approach looks to be quite psychological.
This technique offers the potential for unconstrained personal growth.
Kids learn practical skills through this approach that are helpful in one’s social and personal life.

Disadvantages:

It is not very helpful for normal and smart children because this technique was originally designed for dull and impaired youngsters.
The instructional materials are rather expensive. In a school located in a neighborhood with low-income parents, it is challenging to offer the same.

The time it takes to teach youngsters certain things is excessive.
Finding qualified teachers for this system is difficult.