Montessori
I’ve been reading In The Plex, which delves in to how Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin revolutionized the world. One section describes the personalities and minds of Page and Brin, attributing much of it to their educational background in Montessori schools.
Here’s an excerpt:
“‘Montessori’ schools are based on the educational philosophy of Maria Montessori, an Italian physician born in 1870 who believed that children should be allowed the freedom to pursue what interested them. To ask their own questions, do their own things. To disrespect authority. Do something because it makes sense, not because some authority figure told you. In Montessori school you go paint because you have something to express or you just want to do it that afternoon, not because the teacher said so. They’re always asking ‘Why should it be like that?’ It’s the way their brains were programmed early on. Montessori really teaches you to do things kind of on your own at your own pace and schedule. It was a pretty fun, playful environment.”
– pages 121-123 In The Plex by Steven Levy
I’m actually a Montessori kid myself. I went to a Montessori elementary school and always remember how I was truly allowed to pursue my interests and explore my imagination.
If I wanted to learn all the times tables, I could. If I wanted to lay on a beanbag and read for hours, I could. My teacher encouraged me. I was taught to learn and to love it.
Thank you, Mom, for waiting in the registration line overnight to get me in.
I think it’s had a huge impact on who I am today.
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A mother’s happiest moment is an appreciation from her own child. You are very welcome Stanley.