Research published in the September 29, 2006 issue of Science shows notable academic and social benefits to the Montessori method of education which emphasizes self-directed learning, small groups, minimal grading and testing, independence, responsibility and environmental interaction.
The study monitored children who had been entered into a lottery for placement at The Montessori school in Milwaukee. While some were randomly selected for placement at the school and others attended normal public schooling, all were tested for social and cognitive and academic skills at two junctures in their education.
Children who had been selected in the lottery and subsequently enrolled in the Montessori school showed advantages over other children at both the primary (ages 3 to 6) and elementary (ages 6 to 12) levels.
Pupils from the younger group showed better reading and mathematical abilities. Socially, they also tended to play with less violence, engage more with peers, showed a greater sense of justice and fairness and were more adaptable to new situations.
The older children meanwhile produced essays judged more sophisticated and creative from the Montessori group. The two groups measured similarly on reading, mathematics, spelling and punctuation skills, even though the Montessori children were rarely tested or graded on these areas. They were also said to feel a greater sense of community with fellow pupils and to handle social confrontations more positively.
Read more: Study Indicates That Montessori Education Provides Better Outcomes Than Traditional Methods
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