Montessori vs Mainstream
Discover the fundamental differences between Montessori and mainstream education, highlighting unique approaches to nurturing children's development.
Foundations of Learning
Educational Philosophy
Montessori
vs
Mainstream
Based on helping the natural development of the human being
vs
Based on the transfer of a national curriculum
Child is an active participant in learning
vs
Child is a passive participant in learning
Understanding comes through the child’s own experiences via the materials; promotes children’s ability to find things out for themselves
vs
Learning is based on topics and is limited to what is provided by the teacher
Classroom Dynamics and Learning Pace
Teaching Methods and Learning Environment
Montessori
vs
Mainstream
Children learn at their own pace and follow their own individual interests
vs
Children learn from a set curriculum according to a fixed timeframe
Children teach themselves using materials specifically prepared for that purpose
vs
Children are taught by the teacher
Learning is based on the fact that physical exploration and cognition are linked
vs
Children sit in groups and are led by educators
Child can work where they are comfortable and can move around without disturbing others
vs
Child is usually encouraged to sit still and listen during group sessions
The teacher works in collaboration with the children
vs
The class is teacher-led
Child works as long as they wish on a chosen project
vs
Child is generally given a specific time limit for work
Uninterrupted work cycles
vs
Limited time allowed for activities
Holistic vs Academic Development
Social and Emotional Development
Montessori
vs
Mainstream
Environments and methods encourage internal self-discipline
vs
Teacher acts as the primary enforcer of external discipline
The child’s individual development brings its own reward and motivation
vs
Motivation is achieved through a system of rewards and punishments
Mixed age groups
vs
Same age groups
Working and learning are matched to the social development of the child
vs
Working and learning occur without a specific emphasis on social development
Shared emphasis on intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual development
vs
Main emphasis on intellectual development
Shared focus on the acquisition of academic, social, practical, and life skills
vs
Main focus on academics