The following is a comparison of the Montessori Method versus the Traditional Method of teaching children:
| The Montessori Method | Traditional Method |
|---|---|
| Respect for individual differences. | Emphasis on conforming to the group. |
| Self-motivation and child centered learning process. | Emphasis on grades, punishment or rewards as motivating factors. |
| Multi-age grouping whereby students learn “horizontally from observation of other people’s work, directly or indirectly”. | Students grouped chronologically to suit teachers’ pre-planned class lessons. |
| Students learn at their own pace, free to complete a project or pursue a subject as deeply as they wish and according to personal enthusiasm. | Subjects are taught in lecture form and students must change classes and attend lessons all at the same time. |
| Students learn by practicing their subject matters while in school with the supervision and assistance of the teacher as needed. | Students must practice on their own and be graded on “busy work” or “home work” that is often done without close monitoring. |
| The classroom is used as a library or resource room for projects and studies. The children are free to move and tire less. | Students work at a desk and passively sit to listen to lectures for long periods. The work period must be interrupted frequently. |
| Knowledge is acquired through the use of concrete materials, scientifically designed to enhance conceptual thinking and lead to abstraction. | Knowledge often consists of memorization of irrelevant information from abstract concepts unrelated to the child’s daily experience. |
| Testing is built into the method as the third period of the “three-period-lesson” and is applied routinely when the individual is ready. Testing aims at self-correction, repetition and competence. | Scheduled testing does not take into consideration the preparation of each individual. Students are intimidated and taught that passing is more important than knowing. |
Montessori programs, based on self-directed noncompetitive activities, help children develop strong self-images of themselves and the confidence to face challenges and change with optimism.
