A quote by Dr Maria Montessori- “If education is always to be conceived along the same antiquated lines of a mere transmission of knowledge, there is little to be hoped from it in the bettering of man's future. For what is the use of transmitting knowledge if the individual's total development lags behind?”
The Montessori system of education was founded by Dr Maria Montessori, who was the first female physician of Italy. Dr Montessori played an important role in redefining education all over the world. Her system has converted a teacher centric learning environment to one that is child centric. Her mission was to let the child lead the way on his path of learning.
Dr Montessori has designed loads of learning materials for children. The materials are mainly divided into four categories-
- Exercises of practical Life
- Sensorial Exercises
- Language
- Arithmetic
It is a wonderful system wherein children work with materials of their choice on individual mats. They are allowed to explore the materials and learn at their own pace. In contrast to the traditional classroom wherein the teacher is most active, it is the child who is most active in a Montessori environment. The role of the teacher is that of a facilitator. She does not force learning upon the child. She merely facilitates the child’s learning.
The beauty of the Montessori philosophy lies in the fact that it respects every child’s abilities and allows the child to be an explorer. In an authentic Montessori environment, children emerge as independent and confident young learners.
For more information on the Montessori system, check out the following books by Dr Maria Montessori-
- The Secret of Childhood
- The Absorbent Mind
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