Montessori Method of Education

The ability to just watch children learn is one of the most rewarding things about life. How they interpret knowledge and use their own intellect to understand the world around them is ingenious. As an educator one of the most rewarding aspects about teaching children is when they can use their own interests to teach themselves. This capability comes through the educative teaching plan set by Maria Montessori. Maria was an Italian educator who through her studies discovered that, "children have an innate drive to learn, and that all on their own they are capable of amassing an incredible amount of information and wisdom about the world around them". http://www.nndb.com/people/189/000108862/
"Working with institutionalized and inner-city youngsters, Dr. Maria Montessori was struck by how avidly the children absorbed knowledge from their surroundings. Given developmentally appropriate materials and the freedom to follow their interests, they joyfully taught themselves.
The goal of Montessori education is to foster a child’s natural inclination to learn. Montessori teachers guide rather than instruct, linking each student with activities that meet his interests, needs, and developmental level. The classroom is designed to allow movement and collaboration, as it also promotes concentration and a sense of order.
Unique learning materials beckon from accessible shelves, inviting small hands to take on new challenges, 1 concept or skill at a time." https://www.amshq.org/Montessori%20Education.aspx
I find that this method is extremely appealing especially since I want to teach elementary education. Giving my students the freedom to explore their own interests and learn in their own unique way is so important to help students find an interest in learning. I found that this method of education helps students be engaged in learning for not just their elementary ed. years but for the rest of their education. I feel that if I can use the methods that Maria taught, my students will be better prepared to learn in the future.