Introduction
Choosing an educational philosophy that is best in line with my professional ideas, beliefs, and aims presents a difficulty as I plan a classroom layout that is developmentally suitable for my students. The situation has left me puzzled. I’ve chosen to use the Montessori approach in my classroom rather than the Waldorf or Reggio Emilia methods, two other well-known pedagogical frameworks. Both Waldorf and Reggio Emilia’s approaches to teaching are very effective. The Montessori method stands out as one that is particularly attractive. This is because it provides a strategy for creating a setting that is suitable for kids of varying ages and stages of development.
Main Reasons
Every child is treated as an individual with their own set of interests, skills, and preferred learning styles respected and celebrated in a Montessori classroom. This puts the youngster in a position to flourish in an atmosphere that fosters their innate curiosity and love of learning. Recognizing and appreciating these differences and providing students with opportunities for self-directed inquiry and discovery are two of the most important aspects of a classroom designed to be developmentally appropriate.
In Montessori classrooms, teachers are not expected to execute the usual role of authoritative figures; rather, they take on the role of guides. They maintain vigilance, provide assistance when necessary, and work to create a setting in which the kids may safely explore, experiment, and learn on their own terms (Arnott, 2021). Teachers take on more of a supporting role rather than a leading one, creating an environment that is more amenable to group work and discussion.
The Montessori approach, which focuses great emphasis on the subject, is based on the idea that children should be encouraged to acquire a sense of independence from an early age. Students are taught to take charge of their own learning and are actively encouraged to develop their own individualized plans and routines (Ginger Kelley McKenzie et al., 2021). The benefits to children include the growth of fundamental life skills and a robust feeling of self-efficacy, both of which are vital in a developmentally appropriate classroom.
In addition, the Montessori approach has a proven history of being supportive of kids with special needs in the classroom. Maria Montessori’s creation of the Montessori approach provides evidence of this. An inclusive classroom that caters to each student’s unique requirements may be easily established using this method (Ginger Kelley McKenzie et al., 2021). This is because Montessori materials are adaptable, and the emphasis is placed on each child’s unique growth.
Items Required
The classroom will have an inviting atmosphere that is both functional and visually pleasant, thanks to the careful planning that went into its layout. The design is responsible for all of this. The classroom would be designed with children in mind, with low shelves, kid-sized furniture, and a plethora of Montessori materials to encourage independence in the classroom.
One strategy to encourage customized learning is to provide students with options for pursuing their interests and developing their skills. Students would be given the chance to choose among these alternatives (Arnott, 2021). The Montessori arithmetic tools, such as the spindle box and the golden beads, are sure to pique the curiosity of any young learner with an aptitude for numbers. But a curious child about language could enjoy playing with the movable alphabet and sandpaper letters.
Students in Montessori schools usually vary in age from three to six years old, six to nine years old, and nine to twelve years old. The typical classroom setting includes students of varying ages. The framework provides opportunities for children to learn from and help their peers, fostering growth in both their social skills and their confidence in taking on leadership responsibilities. Older children may help younger ones by instructing and mentoring them, while younger ones can help older ones by learning from them.
Students would also be instructed to put away their personal items and pick them up after themselves after utilizing any resources that had been left out. Students may feel more accountable and invested in their educational experience if this method is put into practice (Slade, 2021). The Montessori method incorporates lessons on compassion, cooperation, and conflict resolution without resorting to physical force throughout the whole school year. This is one of the ways in which the institution is making good on its vow to make teaching about peace and resolving conflict a top priority.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Montessori approach is a good way to design a classroom that is suitable for the kids’ ages, accommodates their unique needs, nurtures their capacity for independent thought, and promotes an atmosphere that invites their active participation. Because it embraces child-centered learning and promotes vital life skills, this method aligns with my educational philosophy and principles, and it also provides a helpful and engaging atmosphere for pupils. This approach shares my belief that a child’s education should be adapted to their specific needs and interests. Students in a Montessori classroom have access to a wide variety of resources designed to foster not just academic achievement but also social and emotional development.
References
Arnott, L. (2021). Embracing complexity in the culture of early childhood education. European Early Childhood Education Research Journal, 1–6. Web.
McKenzie, G. K., Zascavage, V. S., Rigaud, V. M., Dahlmeier, C., & Le, M. (2021). The Inclusive Classroom. Rowman & Littlefield.
Slade, E. G. (2021). Montessori in Action. John Wiley & Sons.