Date of Award

12-2016

Document Type

Action Research Project

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Education, Montessori

First Advisor

Nicole Wilcox

Department/School

Montessori Early Childhood, Montessori Elementary Education

Abstract

This action research project investigated the effects on involving children in the practical life curriculum on normalization in the Montessori toddler and primary classrooms. 30 students, their parents and 7 teachers were participants. 12 students and their parents were from a toddler classroom and 18 from two separate primary classrooms. Data was collected pre and post study via questionnaires on the parents’ goals for their children. Many of the goals listed such as socialization skills, independence and emotional stability can be met through engaging the child in practical life activities and as the child meets these goals should normalize. A behavior log, daily plan sheet log and journaling tracked what materials children used or were offered for the purpose of tracking components of normalization such as self-regulation, confidence, independence and socialization. Analysis of the data showed that when a child was directed to a practical life activity he was more likely to choose a second activity on his own and continue to move through cycles of work independently. When a child could not be directed to an activity, practical life or otherwise, observing the environment with an adult was beneficial in assisting the child in the process of normalization.

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