Pedagogical Tip 👩🏻‍🎓:
The Montessori materials were scientifically designed in an experimental context within the classroom, paying special attention to the interest of children according to the evolutionary stage in which they are and with the conviction that the manipulation of specific objects helps the development of knowledge. and abstract thought.
These materials allow children to investigate and explore individually and independently. They enable repetition, which promotes concentration.
They have the quality of isolating difficulties, that is, each one introduces a single variable, a single new concept, isolating it and leaving the other concepts unchanged.
The materials have error control: it is the same material that will show the child if they used it correctly.
In this way, children know that error is part of the learning process, they manage to establish a positive attitude towards it, they take responsibility for their own learning, and they develop self-confidence.
Some principles of Montessori Education supported by scientific research (Montessori. The Science Behind de Genius, Angeline Stoll Lillard, 2005, Oxford University Press):
1. Thought and movement: thought and movement are closely linked. Movement enhances thinking and learning.
2. Free choice: Learning and well-being improve when people feel they have control over their lives. Independence, willpower and responsibility develop.
3. Interest: the child learns best when he/she is interested in what he/she is learning. Helps understanding and concentration.
4. The reward is internal: practice leads to achievement. It contributes to self-esteem, a sense of responsibility and critical thinking.
5. Learning from and with peers: learning is enhanced by the exercise of teaching others. Promotes respect, tolerance and solidarity.
6. Learning within context: learning situated in meaningful context is deeper and richer than learning in an abstract context.
7. Teacher/student interaction: the teacher observes and accompanies, enabling the child to act, love and think for himself, helping him to develop confidence and inner discipline.
8. Order in the environment and in the mind: external order and sequence in the use of materials are beneficial for the child's internal order. Promotes clarity of thought and concentration.
