Montessori, Anyone?

[Baby14]

Oh thanks Jellybean! We have been discussing Montessori also, and would love to hear peoples experiences

[Lulu]

Seeing the way that the teachers teach, I don't agree with it. Every activity has a set method and a set outcome. If a child discovers that there's a different way to use a learning resource, they are corrected by the teacher; I feel that this squashes creativity and initiative.

That's what bothered me too actually. It seemed a little too 'prescriptive' iykwim? DS's school lets the students discover things for themselves - in fact the students lead alot of the learning as they meander their way through different subjects.
In some ways the philosophy is opposite to Montessori because they encourage students to work together on projects - you can pick up alot from how other people do/perceive things.
They have a big focus on responsibility though - if the students want to do something it is up to them to make it happen. It's amazing what those kids do.

[krysalyss]

Seeing the way that the teachers teach, I don't agree with it. Every activity has a set method and a set outcome. If a child discovers that there's a different way to use a learning resource, they are corrected by the teacher; I feel that this squashes creativity and initiative.

Thats interesting. DS (3) is at a Montessori preschool and I do love it where he is. But I hadn't felt that way about the actual exercises they do in the 'class time' (it is pretty relaxed though because they are only young) but I will have a little look and see how they handle it where he is.

[JellyBean]

Thanks for the link Leasha - that gives me a bit more scope. I will have to request a classroom viewing session to see for myself.