Learning Theories

There are many types of learning theories out their, some that are better than others. Schools across the world use a variety of learning theories. Two learning theories that are completely opposite of each other are the Banking Concept of Education, and the Montessori Theory.

The Banking Concept of Education, created by Paulo Freire, is one that I personally do not agree with.  Why is it called this when it has to do with students learning? The answer is simple. Through this theory, students are referred to as depositories, and the teacher is the depositor. The teacher gives the information, and the students are simply expected to retain it. Students might learn random multiplication facts or other things, but might not know what it means, because there is little to no communication with the teacher. Students simply must accept the information they are deposited. The teacher presents themselves as knowledgeable, and the students considers themselves ignorant, making them accept, memorize, and retain the info.  In this concept, a teacher is considered successful based upon the number of students (s)he fills with knowledge.

On the other hand, a learning theory that I agree with is the Montessori Theory, created by Maria Montessori, and it is extremely different than the Banking Concept. A main theory that the Montessori curriculum follows was a quote said by Montessori herself, "Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed," which really focuses on the how students need to learn to be independent. The school focuses on independence, observation, following the child, correcting the child, a prepared environment, and the absorbent mind. Independence is important because a child needs to be able to do things themselves, and can do this through provided opportunities in the classroom. Following a child helps a teacher identify their personal needs. With this concept, teachers are non-directive, aren't over protective, and let the student do what they need to do. When a child is corrected, voices are not raised, but instead are solved in a calm manner that is practical. A prepared environment is a safe place that allows students to move freely where they want from activity to activity. Montessori described this not as students "playing," but as "creating themselves." Lastly, the absorbent mind focuses on the language of the teachers, since children pick up everything people say. (For more information on Montessori, click here.)

Maria Montessori

As I said before, I agree with the Montessori Theory a lot more than the Banking Concept of Education. Students need interaction with their teachers, it is imperative. They need to know why they are learning things, what the things they are learning mean, etc. While they might be able to memorize and retain the knowledge given to them in the Banking Concept, it won't do them any good in the long run if they don't truly understand it. I feel as if the Montessori Theory puts all focus on the students, what is best for them, their individual needs, and their growth, which is what the Banking Concept lacks.