Five Key Differences Between Montessori and Conventional Schooling

Montessori inspires children to develop a lifelong love of learning, by following their natural processes of development. Children become confident, responsible, independent learners, who trust in their own abilities. So what makes a Montessori education unique from traditional methods of teaching? Read on to learn more.

1.) Testing

Conventional: Standardized testing begins at an early age.

Montessori: Teachers follow the student and assess through meticulous record-keeping.

2.) Freedom of Movement & Choice

Conventional: Children are given assigned seats that are usually arranged in small groups or rows set by the teacher.

Montessori: Children are free to choose their seating, may work at a desk or on the floor, and can choose to work individually or in small groups. Students are provided the freedom to self-select work based on structured choices

provided by the teacher.

3.) Rewards

Conventional: External rewards are used for praise, such as behavior charts, prizes, stickers, and letter grades.

Montessori: Children develop a sense of internal motivation. The joy of work itself is enough to keep the child engaged. Children are offered work that is beautiful and draws their attention, so there is no need for external praise or reward.

4.) Classroom Leadership

Conventional: The teacher is the head of the classroom and in charge of the lesson plan.

Montessori: The teacher follows the student, giving lessons that the child is ready to learn. The child is the main focus in the classroom. Due to the mixed-age environment, older children in the classroom become teachers and role models to the younger students.

5.) Curriculum

Conventional: Main goal is to deliver a standard-based curriculum.

Montessori: Main goal is to cultivate curious and empathetic world citizens and lifelong learners. Teachers have the flexibility to expand on a subject if students show an interest and desire to learn more.

There are many more ways in which the Montessori approach is different from the conventional methods of teaching. Click here to view an expanded list.

“Let us leave the life free to develop within the limits of the good, and let us observe this inner life developing. This is the whole of our mission.” – Maria Montessori