Three of the most popular progressive educational philosophies are Waldorf (also known as Steiner), Montessori and Reggio Emilia. All three sprang out of early twentieth century European desires to fix the ills of the world through educational reform. All strive to treat even very young children as competent beings to be respected. Both Montessori and Waldorf are formal models with elaborate pre-designed systems for learning and teacher-training programs. Reggio Emilia takes a looser approach and is based on a continuing and evolving process of feedback and learning between teachers and students. Some of the differences between the various methods are that Waldorf puts a high premium on play and fantasy and withholds academic learning until children have reached an appropriate age. Montessori believes children are inherently interested in learning and encourages students to explore the world through activities like baking and tools such as glass beads representing mathematical numbers. The Reggio Emilia approach places emphasis on the feel and aesthetics of the learning environment. It also teaches that learning should be shaped by give-and-take between each kid and her teachers. Some educators swear by their own approach, others are less orthodox and dabble in different methods.
Early Stars
“The Emilio Reggio Approach To Early Years Education
“It is a socio-constructivist model. That is, it is influenced by the theory of Lev Vygotsky, which states that children (and adults) co-construct their theories and knowledge through the relationships they build with other people and the surrounding environment.” …read the full article
Steiner Australia
“Frequently Asked Questions”
"The aim of Waldorf schooling is to educate the whole child, “head, heart and hands”. The curriculum is as broad as time will allow, and balances academics subjects with artistic and practical activities… By freely using arts and activities in the service of teaching academics, an internal motivation to learn is developed in the students, doing away with the need for competitive testing and grading." …read the full article
Montessori Australia
“Montessori Approach”
"The Montessori approach offers a broad vision of education as an aid to life. It is designed to help children with their task of inner construction as they grow from childhood to maturity… Its flexibility provides a matrix within which each individual child’s inner directives freely guide the child toward wholesome growth." …read the full article
Early Childhood Research and Practice
“Three Approaches from Europe: Montessori, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia”
"Waldorf, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia are three progressive approaches to early childhood education that appear to be growing in influence in North America and to have many points in common. This article provides a brief comparative introduction and highlights several key areas of similarity and contrast." …read the full article
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Daily Mail UK
"Children at Montessori Schools Are Better Educated"
