Faculty of Education - Theses
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ItemMontessori mathematics education : its contribution to contemporary mathematics theory and curriculum( 1987)Montessori education has a long and continuing tradition. The mathematics education component is founded upon an extensive sensory education programme developed by Dr Maria Montessori and implemented in schools throughout the world. This thesis traces the historical precedents that provided the framework for the development of an educational programme firmly premised on the need for a sensorial education. The translation of the first part of Montessori's 'Psicoaritmetica' provides an illustration of an introductory mathematics programme using structured manipulative materials. This programme develops as a direct extension of the sensory-motor emphasis of Montessori pre-school education. Finally, the Montessori mathematics programme, developed initially over fifty years ago is considered in relation to contemporary mathematics education theories, many of which have reiterated principles and practices first developed by Montessori.
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ItemThe meaning of freedom in the education of the child : Maria Montessori( 1988)In this work an attempt has been made to study Montessori's life and educational activities. Her early educational environment and its effects are analysed and an attempt made to show how these influences produced in Montessori the germs of her educational theory regarding the freedom of the child. An attempt is made to show how the theory of the freedom of the child is congruent with the psychological theories which were popular at that time. The theoretical and practical application of the freedom of the child in its education is analysed in relation to the adult environment, the family and the school. An attempt is made to show how the Montessori material can lead the child to freedom and self-discipline. The origin of the Montessori method of education is discussed Although Montessori (as she herself admitted) adapted her theory and material from other scientists, it was her ingenuity that has made her method successful and original. Finally, it is shown that early child training in movement, which she entitled work , is a constant in her system Montessori's theory that the child's intellect can be enhanced by providing educational materials which can lead to the child's ordering his mind at an early age has relevance to our age and the significance for contemporary practice in schooling is noted.
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ItemThe blue one means ten: a study of place value in Montessori schools( 1994)This study examines the proposal that the Montessori method of education assists the child to learn mathematics in general and whole number place value in particular in an effective way. Place value was chosen because it is a pivotal concept in mathematics education. Montessori's work is reviewed along with other educational theorists such as Piaget, Skemp, Bruner, Dienes and Hughes. The concept of place value is defined and analysed in terms of 1 skill groups which weave together to compose the concept. Interviews were conducted with 17 9 year old children currently enrolled in Montessori schools in Melbourne and Perth using questions which involved use of concrete materials as well as an ability to work in the abstract. The results supports the proposal that the Montessori method of education does assist the child to learn place value. The child's understanding at a concrete level is strong. The results reveal some variability in the children's ability to work in the abstract. It is recommended that Montessori teachers encourage the 3-6 year old child to use the Golden Bead material extensively. The 6-9 year old child should be encouraged to move into the abstract as soon as he or she shows signs of leaving the materials behind. The results demonstrated a lack of confidence in attempting unusual mathematical tasks in the children at 1 school which indicates the importance of all Montessori teachers giving opportunities for children to be adventurous in their mathematical thinking and for the children to take opportunities to write their own mathematical work instead of using prepared questions continually.
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ItemAn exploration of the influence of the theories of Maria Montessori on education in state schools and free kindergartens between 1912 and 1930 in some states of south eastern Australia, with special emphasis on Victoria( 1987)While Montessori's theories appear to have had greater influence and official support in the state schools of New South Wales and in the kindergartens of South Australia, the extent of her influence in Victoria is not widely discussed in educational literature. This thesis tries to examine the ways in which Montessori's theories affected educational ideas and practices in Victorian state schools and free kindergartens between 1912 and 1930. Some comparison is made among the states of South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria as to the extent and reasons for the differing degrees of influence Montessorian ideas exerted over the educational developments in the three states. It is suggested that Montessori's ideas did influence the attitudes of some educators in Victoria but that lack of finance and over-crowding in classrooms prevented the implementation of a Montessori programme. The lasting effect of Montessori does not seem to have differed greatly in the three states.