Montessori |
Traditional |
Mainly individual instruction | Mainly group instruction |
Mixed-age groups | Same-age groups |
Children work at their own pace | Group sets instructional pace |
Environment and method encourage self-discipline | Teacher acts as enforcer of discipline |
In a Montessori classroom, the children set their own learning pace. Progress is not dictated by the average progress of the class or by school board timelines. The self-governing learning process removes any sense of failure. Direction from the teacher is only provided as needed. Beyond this the children are guided to work independently, thus developing the ability to learn effectively on their own. The end goal of a Montessori education is to develop a well-rounded, excellently socialized individual with a rational, inquisitive, well-organized mind.