The Montessori Method

It seems so difficult to realize that Dr Montessori has formulated her educational model 100 years ago, developed all the didactic material herself ( without the aid of computers and technology), practiced her methods, revised her teaching and made all us educators a present of her writings; and yet so few schools and countries are making use of her methods - which, after years of research, modeling, systems and theories in the fields of education and learning, are I think the most effective way of teaching as yet discovered. A must for all educators. Only, there are numerous typing errors... The other drawback - she's a physician, so some passages are too technical for educators, full of medical jargon. Overall, the book is a masterpiece.

The Montessori method is an educational method for children, based on theories of child development originated by Italian educator Maria Montessori in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is applied primarily in preschool and elementary school settings although some Montessori high schools exist. The Montessori method is characterized by an emphasis on self-directed activity on the part of the child and clinical observation on the part of the teacher (often called a director, directress, or guide). It stresses the importance of adapting the child's learning environment to his or her developmental level, and of the role of physical activity in absorbing abstract concepts and practical skills. It is also characterized by the use of autodidactic (self-correcting) equipment for introduction and learning of various concepts. The Montessori name has achieved some attention, is not a trademark and is associated with more than one organisation. There are schools 'influenced' by Montessori which have received substantial criticism and bear little resemblance to other institutions with closer lineage to Maria. The rest of this article refers to Maria's work, the work of her colleagues and their successors. The Montessori method teaches reading via phonics, which was widely discredited in the United Kingdom for many years. However the comparative benefits are presently being recognised.

In great shape and a very interesting book. Thank you for your speedy service.

Responding to the previous reviewer: be sure to get the "Centennial Edition" with the Renoir painting of a mother/child on the cover. That version includes all the original illustrations, in a new design (it's not a photocopy of the original, unlike the cheap versions).