Frequent interruptions
Traditional
Few interruptions
Montessori
Activity cycles determined by set time
Traditional
Child completes cycles of activities
Montessori
Teacher corrects errors
Traditional
Self-correcting materials
Montessori
Opportunity to acquire 21st Century skills is hit or miss depending on the program.
Traditional
Students of all ages develop and master skills needed for the 21st Century – creativity, cooperation, independence, global competency, and strong communication.
Montessori
Social skills are not often part of the classic traditional curriculum. When it is taught, it is more likely as an add-on rather than and integrated fundamental part of the child’s development.
Traditional
Beginning in Toddlers, children of all ages learn the foundational social art of getting along with one another in a peaceful and respectful environment.
Montessori
Students are most often asked to memorize and master facts and information that will be tested.
Traditional
Students are encouraged to develop higher levels of thinking – compare, contrast, evaluate, judge, ask probing questions, identify and solve problems, synthesize what has been learned and apply it to new situations.
Montessori
Classrooms are often characterized by rows of desks facing the front of the classroom where the teacher leads the learning process. Students must stay seated during class.
Traditional
The classroom is a well-equipped learning environment with materials and resources that invite and promote independent learning. Children can move around the classroom to different work areas.
Montessori
Learners practice at home on their own and are graded on their efforts.
Traditional
Learners practice their work in the classroom where teachers can assist and give ready feedback
Montessori
Teachers primarily deliver instruction to students.
Traditional
Teachers act as guides, coaches and mentors.
Montessori
Materials studied are prescribed by the school or school district. Learning is dominated by textbooks
Traditional
A student’s natural curiosity is nurtured and sustained as a key to exploring the rich scientific and multi-cultural lessons and the beautiful materials that convey them.
Montessori
Single age grouping offers little flexibility for children who are advanced or need more help.
Traditional
Multi-age classrooms allow children to advance as they are ready. Older students motivate younger students and consolidate their own learning by helping them.
Montessori
Academic skills are often taught in isolation so that students are acquiring a skill for its own sake.
Traditional
Mastery of core academic skills is integrated into the study of all subject materials.
Montessori
Learning goals are strongly focused on achieving good test scores and grades.
Traditional
Learning goals include love of learning, independence as a learner, self-motivation.
Montessori
All students in a class work at the same pace through the same material.
Traditional
Individual students work at their own pace at their challenge level and according to their own interests
Montessori
Traditional Education
Montessori Education
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