Montessori Education vs. Conventional Education

When interacting with parents, the most common question we face is, is Montessori school good? – or more precisely, is Montessori school better than conventional school? And we get it. Why would you want to send your children to a Montessori if it isn’t any different from a public school?

But before we delve into what sets Montessori education apart, you first need to know what are the goals of Montessori schools, which distinguish Montessori education in more than one way.

The Goals/Objectives Of Montessori Schools

• Make learning joyful so that children develop a positive attitude towards school.

• Develop self-confidence and competence, turning children into independent learners.

• Help children learn the power of concentration through self-motivated activities.

• Foster the inherent curiosity and desire to explore.

• Teach children to take the initiative and develop persistence.

• Sharpen their ability to identify, analyze, and process information.

• Make children more social.

• Help children fully leverage their emotional and intellectual capacity.

Montessori education focuses on various learning principles and tools to fulfill these objectives. They are very different from conventional teacher-led education.

Putting Children First
Unlike a conventional school, a Montessori school is more children-centric. Children have the liberty to speak their minds, learn at their own pace, and have freedom of choice. The traditional classrooms are more restrictive thanks to a myriad of rules and a teacher-centric learning process.

Adaptable Curriculum
Montessori has a flexible curriculum as each child is allowed to learn at their own pace. Children can choose what they want to learn and when they want to do it. And teachers provide the support they need.

Hands-On Learning
Montessori also focuses on real-life learning environments, both indoors and outdoors. Instead of sitting in a classroom listening to their teacher talk, children actively engage in hands-on experiences. Teachers, on the other hand, observe their progress and help children reach their potential.

Leverage Natural Development
Conventional education focuses on the transfer of a general curriculum. It often begs for a reward-and-punishment approach. In a Montessori school, however, kids learn to nurture their individual development. It brings self-motivation. So, there is no need for a reward and punishment system.

Minimal Interruptions
The whole concept of Montessori education is based on giving children the freedom to choose. Teachers will not disturb a child who is engaged in a particular activity. In fact, children are often encouraged to finish the activities they are working on.

Self-Learning
The Montessori environment encourages self-correction, self-discipline, and self-learning. Rather than just passing tests, children learn to enjoy and value the process of learning. Thus, Montessori can turn learning into a way of life, not just a school activity.