Academic Success and Montessori

Montessori

Research has shown that a method of teaching that primarily focuses on individual development rather than tests will produce more self-motivated and self-disciplined children. A group of psychologists in the United States have found that children who attend a Montessori school out-perform those children who are given a traditional standardized educational approach. The biggest differences between the two groups were seen in their behavioural and social skills.

Academic success and Montessori seem to go hand-in-hand. The Montessori learning environment discourages competitive methods of accomplishments such as tests and grades, and primarily focuses on the personal development and progress of the individual child. This type of learning environment encourages children to do their absolute best in all subject areas, without having the pressure of being below or above their classmates academically. A typical Montessori classroom has children of various ages collaborating together in a shared learning environment.

In this particular study, children aged three to twelve in the same school district were tested for academic capabilities, mental performance, and behavioural and social skills. Researchers found a considerable advantage for those attending a Montessori school in both age groups. One of the most remarkable differences is the positive social effects that a Montessori education provides the children. Not only were the five-year-old children better prepared for reading, writing, and arithmetic, they also featured higher test scores for their executive function. An executive function is seen as the ability to adjust and change complex problems, which is a valued indicator of future success not only in school but in life. The children that attend a Montessori school also displayed a bigger sense of community while at school.

Academic Success

·         Montessori children were considerably better prepared for elementary school at the end of their kindergarten year, outscoring others in math and reading skills.

·         Those students enrolled in a Montessori middle school report a considerably enhanced quality of understanding in their academic work. The Montessori students feel more strong, active, excited, sociable, happy, proud, and relaxed when compared to their non-Montessori peers. They seem to enjoy their studies more, have a greater interest in their work, and they desire academic knowledge more than the traditional students.

·         The Montessori students scored an average of 10-20 points higher on the California Achievement Test when compared to students in a traditional classroom.

·         Minority students that attend a Montessori program scored higher on mathematical and geometric concepts, self-concept, attention strategies, vocabulary recognition, and general intelligence.

Social Development

·         Montessori children demonstrated a greater social development in their kindergarten year for the areas of reasoning, fairness, and justice. By the end of their elementary program, Montessori children found more positive solutions to social challenges.

·         Montessori students show higher levels of self-confidence and better participation in social interaction.

Academic success is imminent with a Montessori educational approach. Your child’s interests will be nurtured and they will not only be allowed, but encouraged to follow their passions in life. This style of education will benefit your child as they will be happy and excited to learn about the things that strike their curiosity and that type of attitude will surely bring them success. Check out your local Montessori program to see for yourself just how well we perform.

Read More:- Montessori Schools