LEARNING FOUNDATIONS
An Explanation of Learning Foundations
“Give the child the key and they will unlock
the door.” Research shows that “less is
best.” If we try to give the child too
much, very little is learned in a meaningful way and the joy of discovery is
taken from the student. Research also
shows that learning must be applied and organized in the mind of the learner
and is best facilitated through real world experiences. Of great importance is the integration of the
broader aspects of understanding with the component details. The learning foundations reflect some of the
abilities and that children will generally develop during their school years.
The Montessori
School of Maui ’s
Use of Learning Foundations
The key to assisting children in developing
their potential is in understanding the stages of development experienced
during childhood and adolescence and then creating developmentally appropriate
learning environments to meet students’ needs and interests. Because every child follows their own developmental
time line we understand that students will acquire skills and competencies at
varying rates. Teachers present lessons,
observe the children’s progress, expect students to be responsible for their
learning choices, and create enriched learning environments. MOMI Learning Foundations support this effort
and focus.
Readiness, Stages of Development and Learning
Foundations
Developmentally appropriate practice is based
on understanding the developmental changes children experience during childhood
and on the multiple ways that children learn.
Readiness is not an indication of intelligence or ability. Physical, social, emotional, and cognitive
development is closely related, and children’s development is best served when
viewed holistically. Though development
occurs in a relatively orderly sequence, it is highly individual and proceeds
in varying rates from child to child. A
complete discussion of the knowledge base that informs Montessori practice is
beyond the scope of this document.
Information related to development can be found in the school’s library.
Learning Foundations are Shared with Everyone
Learning Foundations need to be shared with all concerned: students, parents and teachers. Copies are available in every classroom and in the office, upon request.