The incorporation of technology into the Montessori classroom is a choice that must be considered in each Montessori school. Some Montessori schools embrace technology; other Montessori schools prohibit its use. One might wonder, What would Maria Montessori have thought?
In studying Dr. Montessori’s life, it is evident that her scientific and educational ideas were revolutionary in the early 1900’s. In observing and encouraging change based on the needs of the children, she created a methodology for teaching that was very progressive for the Industrial Age. The following chart, based on information shared on former Montessori educator and current education advocate Elizabeth Hubbell’s blog, illustrates that – though Montessori worked in the Industrial Age – her approach to education and child development were ahead of their time, and are perfectly suited to learning in the Information Age.
Industrial Age |
Information Age |
| Books are primary tools | Technology is primary tool |
| Grade levels based on age | Learning in a community of various ages |
| Focus on covering specific content | Focus on meeting learners’ needs |
| Learning “just in case” – information which may not be currently relevant | Learning “just in time” – learning that is developmentally appropriate |
| Testing to a normalized standard | Assessment based on individual performance |
| Classroom as the world | World as the classroom |
| Focus on rote memorization | Focus on problem solving |
| Competition with fellow students | Collaboration with fellow students |
| Teacher-centered | Learner-centered |
| Teacher as knowledge-giver | Teacher as coach |
Please join us throughout the coming week as we examine the integration of technology into the Montessori classroom and the home!