W a g n e r M o n t e s s o r i . c o m

Why Montessori ?

Comparison between Montessori and Traditional Schooling:

	Montessori			Traditional

	Cognitive and social development are emphasized.			Emphasis on rote-learning and social behavior.
	The teacher is a mentor and guide.			The teacher dictates and controls outcomes.
	Activities are child centered.			Activities are teacher centered.
	Promotes internal self-discipline.			Promotes external control of behavior.
	Instruction is based on varied learning styles.			Instruction conforms to adult's style.
	Mixed age grouping.			Same age grouping.
	Children teach, collaborate, and help each other.			Teachers teach; collaboration is discouraged.
	Child can pursue interests and discovery.			The teacher dictates concepts to the child.
	Child develops concepts with manipulatives.			Curriculum based on drill and repetition.
	Child is given time to pursue a lesson.			Child has limited time to develop a lesson.
	The materials provide feedback for accuracy.			Errors usually pointed out by the teacher.
	Learning as an internal developmental process.			Learning is externally reinforced by rote.
	Multi sensory materials promote acquisition.			Limited materials for concrete manipulation.
	In house workshops for parents.			Parental involvement limited to fund raising.
	An education for life: Learning how to think.			Education based on memorization of facts.