Active Learning at Kintess: The Legacy of Maria Montessori

The fundamental principle at Kintess School is to place the child at the center of their learning and foster active engagement in a prepared and stimulating environment. Inspired by Maria Montessori, this approach emphasizes that children learn best when they manipulate, explore, experiment, and discover for themselves. At Kintess, this philosophy is enhanced by modern practices, including combined classes of two grade levels and spaces specially designed to meet the cognitive, social, and emotional needs of each student.

The learning environment is organized into research stations, hands-on manipulation stations, sensory and cognitive workshops, allowing children to choose activities according to their interests and abilities. Research stations provide opportunities to explore topics through books, scientific experiments, or observation projects, while manipulation stations allow students to work on mathematical, geometric, or logical concepts through play and concrete experimentation. These environments foster autonomy, reflection, and active engagement while encouraging cooperation and idea sharing.

Project-based pedagogy is central to this approach at Kintess. Inter-level projects enable children to collaborate, share discoveries, and present their work to peers. For example, in a project on local biodiversity, students may study different components: some observe insects, others plants, and others create maps or models. Each group prepares a presentation or exhibit, allowing everyone to see multiple perspectives and learn from different angles. This approach develops academic skills as well as communication, creativity, and critical thinking.

Kintess teachers play a key role in guiding students, observing interactions, and adjusting activities according to each child’s needs and progress. Active learning also embraces mistakes as learning opportunities. Children are encouraged to experiment, test hypotheses, and reflect on their processes, strengthening critical thinking and resilience.

Integrating Montessori principles and neuroscience research shows that this approach engages several essential brain circuits, including those related to attention, working memory, logic, and emotional regulation. Inter-level interactions stimulate the social and emotional brain, promote cooperation, and help children develop empathy and emotional regulation, essential skills for learning and life.

Thus, active learning at Kintess School combines Montessori principles, inter-level project-based pedagogy, and learning spaces designed to meet each child’s needs. Students learn to be autonomous, curious, and responsible while developing cognitive, social, and emotional skills. This approach prepares children to become motivated, confident learners capable of effective collaboration throughout life.

References:

• Montessori, M. (1967). The Discovery of the Child. Ballantine Books.