The Montessori Learning Theory

The Montessori method of learning was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. This type of learning style focuses on multiage groupings that foster peer learning, uninterrupted blocks of work time, and guided choice of work activity. This type of learning encourages the children to be independent by letting them have the choice of what they are interested in within the limits the teachers set. With the range of ages within the groups it helps the students who are older by reinforcing what they have already learned and it also helps the younger child learn by example. When they grow they will be working with people of all ages so this is an important aspect.

When comparing the Montessori method to the Banking Concept  they do not fit together. The Montessori method is all about communication and group work. Doing what the students finds to be interesting and going with it. Whereas the Banking Method focuses on what the teacher has to teach and what the students have to memorize in order to "succeed" in their school. Their is no line of communication, in which case how can a child fully understand what is being taught if they cannot think critically about the subject, for their own opinion, or ask questions? It is said in Freire's article "the Banking Concept" that "he or she is rather the possessor of a consciousness: an empty "mind" passively open to the reception of deposits of reality from the world outside" (Freire 4). I think that this is an excellent example of how to explain that students are not really gaining any knowledge if they are not challenged to think about what is going on. They just do what they are told and that is all.

I think that the Montessori style of teaching helps a child reach their full potential. "Montessori students learn to think critically, work collaboratively, and act boldly--a skill set for the 21st century"(American Montessori Society). They are learning about things that interest them all while being independent, working in groups and being about tho discuss what they are learning with a range of  ages. I cannot really see where the banking concept will actually help a child develop and learn, especially if they do not think about what they are learning.

Follow this link and it will bring you a website with a bunch of information and a video that helps describe what Montessori is in more depth.


Sources:
http://amshq.org/montessori-education/introduction-to-montessori
https://www.google.com/search?q=montessori&es_sm=93&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=3XVlVOqJLcyggwSUhISoCA&ved=0CAsQ_AUoBA&biw=942&bih=941#tbm=isch&q=montessori%20quotes&revid=1992072903&imgdii=_