Presentation (Montessori)
From Montepedia
In Montessori education, a Presentation refers to the way an adult introduces a child to a new object or activity within the environment.[1] Unlike traditional teaching, the adult does not instruct but demonstrates the correct use of the materials and then allows the child to explore and experiment independently. This demonstration, or presentation, needs to be performed slowly, precisely, and with minimal verbal instruction to be effective.
Montessori Quotes
- "The teacher must derive not only the capacity, but the desire, to observe natural phenomena. In our system, she must become a passive, much more than an active, influence, and her passivity shall be composed of anxious scientific curiosity and of absolute respect for the phenomenon which she wishes to observe."[2]
- "To aid life, leaving it free, however, to unfold itself, that is the basic task of the educator."[3]
Research and Critiques
- Pros: The practice of presentations aligns with research that emphasizes the importance of active, hands-on learning. It allows children to be active participants in their learning, fosters autonomy, and promotes deeper understanding of concepts through exploration.[4]
- Cons: Critics suggest that the presentation method may not provide enough structure or guidance for some learners. They argue that more explicit instruction may be necessary for certain skills or concepts.[5]
Comparisons to Other Methods
Unlike traditional education methods that primarily rely on direct instruction, Montessori education uses presentations to facilitate hands-on learning and independent exploration. This approach places the child at the center of their learning experience.[6]
See Also
References
- ↑ Montessori, M. (1967). The Discovery of the Child. Ballantine Books.
- ↑ Montessori, M. (1912). The Montessori Method. Frederick A. Stokes Company.
- ↑ Montessori, M. (1949). The Absorbent Mind. Clio Press.
- ↑ Lillard, A. (2017). Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius. Oxford University Press.
- ↑ Egan, K. (2002). Getting it wrong from the beginning: Our progressivist inheritance from Herbert Spencer, John Dewey, and Jean Piaget. Yale University Press.
- ↑ Mooney, C. (2013). Theories of Childhood, Second Edition: An Introduction to Dewey, Montessori, Erikson, Piaget & Vygotsky. Redleaf Press.
