At the elementary school level, the distinct qualities of a Montessori elementary school begin to become apparent. This is the time when students begin to be sat in desks in traditional schools. They are presented with lessons and expected to memorize and present what they have been told. This is the typical protocol for education thereafter. That is not true in Montessori schools. In a Montessori school for this age group, something very different is taking place. As a result, something very different is taking place in the students.
In the classroom there is organization. This is maintained by the adult, but often the students may be a part of maintaining that organization. There are often a number of different work stations that are prepared with particular materials. Each station presents a different task that allows the student to practice a variety of skills.
The student is allowed to move about the classroom as they choose during certain hours. Typically, these hours make up most of the school day. The student exercises multiple skills regardless of which student he or she goes to. As a result, a complete education is rather unavoidable. However, by allowing the child a choice in the station that they go to and when they go, the child often maintains a higher level of enthusiasm and motivation than one might expect in a traditional school environment.
There are also different levels of skill in the classroom. This allows a student to learn more effectively, as they are able to learn from other students. There are also the social advantages that can be had when a child is in a Montessori classroom. There is a better understanding of respect that comes from these different age groups, as well as, skill levels all interacting in the same environment.
Before you think that this is a bunch of kids just going wild, know that there is an adult that is in the classroom. This adult is not your traditional teacher as you would find in another type of school. Instead, the adult is there more to ensure that the structure of the room is maintained and as a result, there is a constant flow of fresh ideas going through the classroom. They are more of an advisor and moderator than anything else, they are there to guide.
The result is a relation between the adult and student that is based on respect. The student respects the adult because they are there only to facilitate the child in what they want to do. The adult shows respect to the children by maintaining the environment and by giving attention to the children when they make achievements. These aid the child in developing a functioning interaction with adults.
Each child is a different individual. That makes the selection of a different educational process seem fitting. The Montessori approach is one that allows that child to shape their own education. This direct method to individual education has been in use for decades. The option is available, the choice is yours.
Christie Bardanty is a contributing writer for a Mississauga Montessori Preschool. For more related articles about the Montessori Education, Philosophy and Methodology, please visit Montessori School Articles.
