World Education: Montessori Education

"Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed."

– Maria Montessori, the pioneer of Montessori method.

Montessori education, an internationally acclaimed children education system, was pioneered by Dr. Maria Montessori more than 100 years ago. It is a system that focuses on the philosophy of child development and the rationale for guiding such development.

In Montessori education, children will be motivated to reach their full potential in all areas of life through activities that encourage the development of social skills, emotion, physical coordination and cognitive. The children are encouraged to experience the joy of learning and its process, the development of self-esteem and the development of “I can do it” attitude.

The characteristics of Montessori education include:

The Prepared Environment

• The classroom setting is organized for the children in such a way that it is comfortable within the child’s reach and eye level. The learning materials and furniture that are placed at their specific location give opportunities for the children to learn in a safe and positive environment. Due to their orderly nature, children will be able to grow positively in this environment.

• Out of respect for others, children are usually quiet. Thus, the Montessori classroom setting encourages children to return to the inner peace they hold.

The Montessori Approach

• Children will correct their mistakes on their own as compared to the conventional education system that encourages the teacher to point out the mistakes. This way, the children will be motivated by their desire for self development instead of by their teacher.

• Children are encouraged to experience the joy of learning and the sense of discovery in learning new tasks because their interest is in the process rather than the end result.

• Given that everyone learns at a different pace, each child in Montessori programme will learn individually at his own pace. This method will allow a proper development in all areas of life.

• Children will undergo concrete learning through hands-on experience.

• Children will develop a natural sense of discipline through the clearly-stated ground rules or expectations.

• Older children are placed to teach their juniors as a way to promote a sense of community, self-esteem and learning.

The Teacher

• In the classroom, the teacher plays an unobtrusive role in facilitating learning.

• The teacher and the children will form a positive relationship based on trust and respect, thus fostering self-confidence and desire to try new things.