Montessori Model

When the discussion of non-traditional models of education is brought up, none are more ubiquitous than the Montessori model. Known for its open-ended structure and focus on independent learning, the Montessori model has been implemented in schools around the world. However, there are still some that do not feel it is an option when it comes to broader school reform.

One of the models changing the landscape for education is the Montessori model. The Montessori model was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian educator, and physician. Her teachings, which were compiled into the book The Absorbent Mind, emphasized how children take in information all around them as they are growing up. These “sponge-like” brains of the children take in their surroundings and learn from them (Montessori, Claremont, 2019)

As such, a major pillar of the Montessori model is independent learning. Classrooms are designed with lots of open space and natural lights, and allow students to explore let them learn at their own pace.

For Amy Schlank, Instructional Coach at Elm City Montessori School in New Haven, Connecticut, a core focus for students is independence in learning. This can range from students working independently or in small groups after a lesson.

“Montessori puts a strong emphasis on the development of these skills because the end vision is the development of conscious, capable individuals who can coexist in a peaceful community,” said Schlank. “To this end, independence and the ability to work together are equally as important as the academic skills students are learning.”

The first Montessori school opened in 1911 and has had a bumpy road to today. While the model was gaining success, many of the schools would close by the 1920s. However, since the 1950s the Montessori model has had a renaissance and is more prominent than ever.

In the research article Shunned and Admired: Montessori, Self-Determination, and a Case for Radical School Reform, Angeline S. Lillard highlights why the Montessori model continues to grow, but still, develops strong reactions from onlookers. Lillard found that the Montessori model is effective through its focus on self-determination (Lillard, 2019)

Montessori classrooms feature a teacher, also known as a guide, and an assistant in each classroom. The curriculum is also consistent with other Montessori schools to help promote learning.

“Montessori curriculum is standardized across all Montessori schools, and is fully based on manipulatives and physical learning tools,” said Schlank “This curriculum does not change, allowing guides to become experts at using these instructional tools to deliver lessons and provide follow up work which supports learning.”

More, so, the model has not had any major changes since its formation. Even though the model is highlighted for its strengths, the negative image associated with poorly-implemented Montessori schools casts a long shadow.

A highlight to note of Montessori schools is in its learning model, specifically in the lack of testing. In traditional public schools, test scores determine the fate of the success of the school. Because of this, the learning is dictated by making sure the scores of the students stay high. The education law No Child Left Behind implemented this system, with major consequences for not meeting the standards. This push has however resulted in low testing scores and poor environments for learning.

The Montessori model avoids tests and promotes students learning at their own pace with other ages of students. Along with academic achievement, students that learned in the Montessori model had higher levels of social interaction and playing with others (Lillard et al., 2017).

If the model has found so much success, why is it not thought of as a major contender for school reform? There are several reasons, from the cost of the education to the overall structure not working for some students. From the training and learning materials, they can be quite a costly operation. For teachers, aspects of the Montessori model can be quite difficult to adapt to. The lack of a focused curriculum and open-ended structure can leave teachers discouraged (Meinke, 2019).

Unlike the traditional model, the emphasis on independent work and thought is meant to help stimulate learning through solutions.

“Montessori means students develop academic skills needed to be well informed, literate, global citizens who can work well with others to develop solutions, said Schlank. “They also understand the importance that every individual has in a just society, and have the independent thought and advocacy skills needed to be contributors and activists.”

As the Montessori model has developed over the decades, it has become a tough contender to the traditional model. With its focus on independent learning and self-determination, the model allows students to develop skill sets that can be used outside the classroom. However, like many other non-traditional models, the cost hampers those that cannot afford it to take part.

Sources:

Montessori, M., & Claremont, C. A. (2019). The absorbent mind. Montessori-Pierson Publishing Company.

Lillard, A. (2019, April 29). Shunned and admired: Montessori, self-determination, and a case for radical school reform. Educational Psychology Review. Retrieved October 30, 2021, from https://www.academia.edu/38973746/Shunned_and_Admired_Montessori_Self-Determination_and_a_Case_for_Radical_School_Reform.

Lillard, A. S., Heise, M. J., Richey, E. M., Tong, X., Hart, A., & Bray, P. M. (2017). Montessori preschool elevates and equalizes child outcomes: A longitudinal study. Frontiers in Psychology, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01783

Meinke, H. (2019, November 4). Exploring the pros and cons of montessori education. Rasmussen University. Retrieved October 30, 2021, from https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/education/blog/pros_cons_montessori_education/.