Montessori, Maria

(1870–1952)

   One of the 20th century’s most famous and innovative educational theorists, Maria Montessori was born in Ancona (The Marches). The so-called Montessori method, which has been used in experimental schools all over the world and has had a huge impact on curricular and school reform in all advanced industrial countries, prizes the use of didactic materials that spontaneously awaken the curiosity of young children and also incite them to learn. It was thus in opposition to the highly disciplined and teacher-centered methods common in the early part of the 20th century. Children taught by the Montessori method are encouraged to read, write, and develop spatial skills at a very early age. This aspect of the method has led to criticism from educational progressives, who believe that early education should allow children to adjust to their environment and experience rather than fostering precocious academic achievement. As one would expect from someone who put so much emphasis on free inquiry and curiosity, Montessori was no friend of the Fascist regime. Rather than endure the dictatorship, she left Italy and eventually established herself permanently in the Netherlands. She died near The Hague in 1952.

   See also Women.