If you’re looking for a way to better educate your students, your school may want to consider adopting the Montessori way of teaching. This approach has been shown to be very effective, and can help students learn in a more hands-on and interactive way. Keep reading to learn more about what the Montessori approach is, and how you can start using it in your own classroom.
What is the Montessori Approach?
The Montessori approach to education is based on the work of Maria Montessori, who was one of the first women to become a doctor in Italy. She developed this approach based on her observations of how children learn and develop. The Montessori approach is focused on allowing students to learn at their own pace, and in their own way. It also encourages students to be active participants in their own education, through activities such as hands-on learning, working with others, and problem solving.
How Can I Start Using the Montessori Approach in My Classroom?
If you’re interested in using the Montessori approach in your classroom, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, talk to your school’s administration about bringing a Montessori teacher on staff.
Once you have spoken to your administration and gotten started with some resources, you can begin to implement the Montessori approach in your classroom. One of the best ways to do this is by setting up a Montessori-inspired learning space in your classroom. This space should be filled with materials that allow students to explore and learn at their own pace. You can also create activities that allow students to work together and problem solve.
How To Help Students Adapt to This New Method of Schooling
Many students may be apprehensive about switching to a new way of learning, especially if they are doing well in their current school. It’s important to take the time to explain to students why you are making the change, and what they can expect from the Montessori approach. You can also help students transition by gradually incorporating more Montessori-inspired activities into your existing curriculum. For example, you might start by using Montessori materials during a certain time, and then eventually move to using them throughout the entire day.
So There’s No Gradebook in Montessori Teaching?
That’s correct! One of the key aspects of the Montessori approach is that students are not graded on their work. This is because Maria Montessori believed that grading can interfere with a child’s natural love of learning. Instead, students are given feedback on their progress, and teachers work to ensure that each child is challenged and engaged in their work. Rest assured, you can still use an online gradebook to capture this feedback online, and share it conveniently with the parents. There are some great custom gradebooks available on the web!
The Montessori approach is a great way to help your students learn and grow, and it can be adapted to fit any classroom setting. If you’re looking for a new way to educate your students, consider giving the Montessori approach a try.
Zara Raza is the Head of Marketing at SchoolCues, an all-in-one SaaS platform for schools to manage their admissions, payments, grades, student information, and more. She graduated from University of California in 2019, and has written several blogs on topics such as technology and education.
