Montessori

Maria Montessori

What programs help support first year teachers, and what can be done to reduce teacher attrition rates?

The Montessori method is philosophically and practically different from other educational methods, and also very different from the personal educational experience of most adults who become Montessori teachers. The words "directress" or "guide" is sometimes used rather than "teacher" because of the different role of the adult in relating to the child - directing him to find the best way to learn from the environment rather than from the adult.

There are several Montessori foundations that offer support, conferences and professional development workshops.

What is education for democracy?

The Montessori method aims to create fulfilled individual thinkers, who become life-long learners, and therefore contribute to society and the environment.

Education for democracy is education that fosters the moral, emotional, and psychological aspects of the developing child. It is education that teaches the student how to become an active member of their particular place and time in society.

Students are taught to be self-reliant, independent, and individual thinkers. They are aware of the group, but remain self-directed learners, aware of their own motivations.

Democracy depends on the intelligence and independence of the voters. Intelligence can be developed only by allowing young people to deal with real-life problems and by fostering their individual intellectual development.

The Montessori method of observes and supports the natural development of children. Montessori educational practice helps children develop creativity, problem solving, social, and time-management skills, to contribute to society and the environment, and to become