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MONTESSORI |
TRADITIONAL |
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Respect for individual differences |
Emphasis on conforming to the group |
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Self-motivation and child centered learning process |
Emphasis on grades, punishment, or rewards as
motivating factors |
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Multi-age grouping whereby students learn
“horizontally” from observations |
Students grouped
chronologically to suit teachers’ pre-planned class
lessons of other’s work, directly or indirectly |
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Students learn at their own pace, free to complete a
project or pursue a subject as deeply as they wish
and according to personal enthusiasm |
Subjects are taught in
lecture format and students must change classes and
attend lessons at the same time |
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Students learn by practicing their subject matters
while in school with the supervision and assistance
of the teacher as needed |
Students must practice
on their own and be graded on “busy work” or
homework that is often done without close monitoring |
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The
classroom is used as a library or resource room for
projects and studies. The students are free to move
and tire less. |
Students work at desks
and passively sit to listen to lectures for long
periods. The work period must be interrupted
frequently. |
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Knowledge is acquired through the use of concrete
materials, scientifically designed to enhance
conceptual thinking and lead to abstract thinking. |
Knowledge often consists
of memorization of irrelevant information from
abstract concepts unrelated to the child’s daily
life. |
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Testing is built into the method as the third period
of the “three period lesson” and is applied
routinely when the individual is ready. Testing aims
at self-correction, repetition and competence. |
Scheduled testing does
not take into consideration the preparation of each
individual. Students are intimidated and taught that
passing is more important than knowing. |
Fax: (925)
838-2692 
