Inspired Methods & Philosophies
Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences theory is sensitive to one’s natural learning style and supports maximizing teaching by drawing on a child’s natural strengths. Gardner’s theory challenges the notion that everyone can learn the same materials in the same way. He argues that children will be better served by a broader vision of education, wherein teachers use different methodologies.
To help teachers make the right connection, Gardner identifies seven distinct types of intelligence that children may possess.
Visual-Spatial
Visual-Spatial – These learners think in terms of physical space and are very aware of their environments. They can be taught primarily through drawings, verbal and physical imagery.
Bodily-kinesthetic
Bodily-kinesthetic – These learners use the body effectively and have a keen sense of body awareness. They communicate well through using body language and learn best through physical activity, hands-on learning, acting out and role-playing.
Musical
Musical – These learners show sensitivity to rhythm and sound. They can be taught by turning lessons into lyrics and speaking rhythmically.
Interpersonal
Interpersonal - These learners develop understanding best when interacting with others. They can be taught through group activities and dialogues.
Intrapersonal
Intrapersonal – These learners understand one's own interests and goals. They're in tune with their inner feelings; they have wisdom, intuition and motivation, as well as a strong will, confidence and opinions. They can be taught through independent study and introspection because they are the most independent of the learners.
Linguistic
Linguistic – These learners use words effectively. They have highly developed auditory skills and often think in words. They can be taught by encouraging them to say and see words, read books together.
Logical-mathematical
Logical -Mathematical – These learners think conceptually, abstractly and are able to see and explore patterns and relationships. They can be taught through logic games, investigations, and mysteries.
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Reggio Emilia Approach views teachers as learners and the physical environment as the “third teacher”.
It recognizes that children learn through actively seeing, touching, moving and listening in the world around them.
It trusts teachers, parents and children to cooperate as part of an educational team to discover and investigate areas of interest.
As children proceed in their investigation, generating and testing their hypotheses, they are encouraged to depict their understanding through different means of communication including drawing, sculpture, dramatic play and writing.
The curriculum is characterized by many features including real-life problem solving among peers along with numerous opportunities for creative thinking and exploration.
Dr. Maria Montessori emphasizes respect for individual differences and social interaction. Her practical and tested methods for bringing forth the best in young human beings, stress education of the whole personality rather than teaching a specific body of knowledge.
Her method views children as they really are and create environments, which foster the fulfillment of their highest potential - spiritual, emotional, physical, and intellectual - as members of a family, the world community.
Montessori educational practice helps children develop creativity, problem solving, critical thinking and time-management skills, to contribute to society and the environment, and to become fulfilled persons in their particular time and place.
The Montessori Method serves the needs of children of all levels of mental and physical ability, as they live and learn in a natural mixed-age group that reflects the society they will live in as adults.
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