I do not, at this point, know a great deal about the Montessori outlook or how it is implemented within a school system. I know that the curriculum is structured around tasks and tools, materials that build specific skills in a specific order. The order of the day is determined largely by the child, and the progression through these skills varies from student to student, depending upon their particular interests. I know it is a curriculum style that is resurfacing as emphasis in early childhood education is placed on child-centered instruction, but I also know that many aspects of the Montessori method have come under severe scrutiny.
My personal interest in the Montessori method began last semester, after reading a brief biography of her life from one of our introductory textbooks. This excerpt, describing a woman with a scientific background who sought reform in education, compelled me to look up more information. (For more information about the biography of Montessori, consult "Montessori: A History")
I see aspects of the teacher I wish to become exemplified in the life of Maria Montessori, and I see value in the ways she has constructed her curriculum. However, because my knowledge is at this point limited, I have yet to determine the extent of its value for myself. I do not yet have sufficient information to apply it to what I know about early childhood education today. In order to find out all I can, I've outlined a plan for reading and observation.
Thank you for following along with this learning log!
-Anna
My personal interest in the Montessori method began last semester, after reading a brief biography of her life from one of our introductory textbooks. This excerpt, describing a woman with a scientific background who sought reform in education, compelled me to look up more information. (For more information about the biography of Montessori, consult "Montessori: A History")
I see aspects of the teacher I wish to become exemplified in the life of Maria Montessori, and I see value in the ways she has constructed her curriculum. However, because my knowledge is at this point limited, I have yet to determine the extent of its value for myself. I do not yet have sufficient information to apply it to what I know about early childhood education today. In order to find out all I can, I've outlined a plan for reading and observation.
Thank you for following along with this learning log!
-Anna
