MONTESSORI |
"TRADITIONAL" |
| The method respects individual differences |
Emphasis is on conforming to the group |
| The learning process is student-centered and
emphasizes self-motivation |
Emphasis is on grades, punishments or rewards as motivating factors |
| Students are placed in multi-age classrooms so
they may learn horizontally from observation of
other work, directly and indirectly |
Students are grouped chronologically to suit teacher’s pre-planned class lessons |
| Students learn at their own pace, free to complete a project or pursue a subject as deeply
as they wish |
Subjects are taught in lecture form and students
must change classes and attend all lessons at
the same time |
| The classroom is used as a library for studying
and completing projects: students are free to
move as needed and are active participants in
building their own knowledge |
Students work at desks, passively listening to
the lecture. Passive learning is more tiring and
the school work day has to be divided into
periods with interruptions |
| Children are encouraged to teach, collaborate,
and to help each other |
Most teaching is done by the teacher and
collaboration is discouraged |
| Students avail themselves of concrete materials,
designed to enhance conceptual thinking.
These hands-on manipulations bring about
knowledge which is based on experience |
Learning takes place primarily through
memorization and repetition of abstract
concepts. |
| Environment and method encourage self-discipline |
Teacher acts as primary enforcer of discipline |
| Child spots own errors through feedback from
materials |
Errors in child’s work highlighted by teacher |
| Uninterrupted work cycles |
Block time, period lessons |
| Schools meets needs of students |
Students fit mold of school |
| Students active, talking, with periods of
spontaneous quiet, freedom to move |
Students are passive at desks |
