Maria Montessori (1870 1952)

Short Biography: Born in Italy, 1870. First female physician in Italy Graduated from medic school in 1896 Represented Italy at two womens conferences, Berlin (1896) and London (1900) Pursuing psychology and philosophy in 1901 Became an anthropology professor at University of Rome (1904) 1906, work with a group of 60 young children of working parents in the San Lorenzo district of Rome Founded Casa dei Bambini , Childrens House Struggles: The common misconception of people about Montessori education i. Montessori is a cult ii. Religious school iii. Only for the rich iv. For special needs children Fighting the glass ceiling, social perception Way ahead of the women in her era education and work Faced life-taking danger during Spanish Civil War Was interned as enemy by India during World War II Even so, still continued her teacher training courses in India Montessori Philosophy/ Principles: Natural Spirituality children are inherently good and should be developed freely Children thrive in order and Structure awareness is essential for a child to feel secure by ensuring order in environment Children move through sensitive periods in a particular intense rate/ sensitive period and learning appeared to come very easily Children learn through their senses Children need freedom children should be set free to follow their natural impulses to become dynamic, natural learners Children absorb their culture children absorb the world around them and true discipline and harmony were come from within and not enforced Big teachers directresses (teachers) sensitively guide children activities rather than control them Small teachers children learn from other older children Processes not results external demands (results) stops children enjoying their natural curiosity Contributions: 1. Montessori Method - environment that serves the particular needs of the children - adult acts as a guide to help the child find his natural path of development. 2. developed materials to teach children with learning disabilities 3. Pioneered anti-bullying conflict resolution education and multi-cultural education. 1913, Montessori Educational Association was founded 1915, glass house schoolroom was exhibited in San Francisco 1919, began a series of teacher training courses in London 1922, appointed a gov. inspector of schools in Italy 1929, founded Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) 1936, rescued by a British Cruiser during Spanish Civil War 1938, opened Montessori Training Centre in Netherlands 1939, founded a series of teacher training courses in India 1947, founded Montessori Centre in London Nominated for Nobel Peace Prize in 1949, 1950, and 1951 Died in Holland, 1952

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