Universal interest levels in early childhood: Montessori's theory of sensitive periods.

摘要

The idea of maturationally-determined sequences of sensitive periods in early childhood was developed by Maria Montessori, and the educational method which bears her name is based on these age-related sensibilities. This dissertation explores these "windows of opportunity" and the kinds of activities which promote spontaneous or deep concentration in three-to-six year-olds.;A review of the literature discusses Montessori's theory of sensitive periods in light of more recent discoveries in the fields of neurology, linguistics, and ethology, as well as the Flow Theory of Csikzentmihaly and Systems Theory which views development as a process of self-organization.;A video was developed showing children working with Montessori activities against a voice-over of Montessori's own words. Through this vehicle, the construct, "concentration event," was operationalized and rater reliability established (Alpha =.4671).;One hundred sixteen students' provided empirical evidence from 73 selected schools across North America and Europe concerning interest levels of Montessori children. A wide geographical diversity created the possibility of inferences regarding universal tendencies.;A significant correlation was found to exist between a child's age and the activity or object of concentration. Significant differences in both the age and duration of concentration events were found between public and private Montessori schools. No statistical difference was found between the age boys and girls concentrated on the various Montessori materials; in certain geographical regions, however, differences were found which were statistically significant.