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Montessori vs Traditional Education

Montessori Education Traditional Education
Individual students work at their own pace at their challenge level and according to their own interests. All students in a class work at the same pace through the same material.
Learning goals include love of learning, independence as a learner, self-motivation. Learning goals are strongly focused on achieving good test scores and grades.
Mastery of core academic skills is integrated into the study of all subject materials. Academic skills are often taught in isolation so that students are acquiring a skill for its own sake.
Multi-age classrooms allow children to advance as they are ready. Older students motivate younger students and consolidate their own learning by helping them. Single age grouping offers little flexibility for children who are advanced or need more help.
A student’s natural curiosity is nurtured and sustained as a key to exploring the rich scientific and multi-cultural lessons and the beautiful materials that convey them. Materials studied are prescribed by the school or school district. Learning is dominated by textbooks.
Teachers act as guides, coaches and mentors. Teachers primarily deliver instruction to students.
Learners practice their work in the classroom where teachers can assist and give ready feedback. Learners practice at home on their own and are graded on their efforts.
Classroom is a well-equipped learning environment with materials and resources that invite and promote independent learning. Children can move around the classroom to different work areas. Classrooms are often characterized by rows of desks facing the front of the classroom where the teacher leads the learning process.  Students must stay seated during class.
Curriculum is integrated so that students learn the connections between everything in the world and the universe. Subject areas are taught in isolation from one another.
Students are encouraged to develop higher levels of thinking – compare, contrast, evaluate, judge, ask probing questions, identify and solve problems, synthesize what has been learned and apply it to new situations. Students are most often asked to memorize and master facts and information that will be tested.
By creating their own work plans beginning in Lower Elementary, students learn excellent time management skills. Time management is not generally taught.
Beginning in Toddlers, children of all ages learn the foundational social art of getting along with one another in a peaceful and respectful environment. Social skills are not often part of the classic traditional curriculum. When it is taught, it is more likely as an add-on rather than and integrated fundamental part of the child’s development.
Students of all ages develop and master skills needed for the 21st Century – creativity, cooperation, independence, global competency, and strong communication. Opportunity to acquire 21st Century skills is hit or miss depending on the program.