The Montessori way of learning
Information provided by DCS Montessori
DCS Montessori (DCSM) is a public charter school in Castle Pines that implements the Montessori philosophy of education. The Montessori method of education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, is a child-centered educational approach based on scientific observations of children from birth to adulthood. Montessori’s method has been time tested, with more than 100 years of success in diverse cultures throughout the world.
The mission of DCSM is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire an education based on an authentic and accredited curriculum founded on the educational philosophy of Maria Montessori. DCSM students enrich the world through positive and substantial contributions in their chosen endeavors. Dr. Angeline Stoll Lillard is a professor of psychology at the University of Virginia. She is the director of the Early Development Laboratory, one of four Child Development laboratories in the psychology department at the University. Her book, “The Science Behind the Genius” highlights the eight Principles of Montessori education:
1. Movement and cognition are closely entwined, and movement can enhance thinking and learning.
2. Learning and well-being are improved when people have a sense of control over their lives.
3. People learn better when they are interested in what they are learning.
4. Tying extrinsic rewards to an activity, like money for reading or high grades for tests, negatively impacts motivation to engage in that activity when the reward is withdrawn.
5. Collaborative arrangements can be very conducive to learning.
6. Learning situated in meaningful contexts is often deeper and richer than learning in abstract contexts.
7. Particular forms of adult interaction are associated with more optimal child outcomes.
8. Order in the environment is beneficial to children.
