Conventional Education vs. Montessori

CONVENTIONAL Late start at school (5-6) One age per class Seated at desks Little socialization Large group lessons Teacher as source of answers Rewards and punishments Adult centered schedule Frequent interruptions Limited curriculum Peer comparison as test Emphasis on grades Emphasis on conformity Annual promotion Teacher a disciplinarian Corporal punishment Little parent involvement Graded report cards

MONTESSORI Early start at school (2-3) Three-year age span per class Freedom to move about Community atmosphere Individual lessons Self-correcting materials Natural, logical consequences Child centered schedule Longer free work periods Enhanced curriculum Progress of student as test Emphasis on learning Emphasis on individuality Progress at individual rate Emphasis on “self control” PEACE in education Strong school/home ties Observation based progress report

Researched by:

Eugene A. Haggarty
ED 177.07 (Educational Validities)
Experimental College
San Francisco State College

Center for Montessori Teacher Education
25 Roxbury Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583