As of 2022, there are more than 2,200 preschools and kindergartens in Singapore, according to the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA), a government agency responsible for regulating and developing the early childhood sector locally. These include both government-funded and privately-run entities, as well as international schools offering early childhood programs. ECDA also regulates and licenses all early childhood providers in Singapore to ensure that they meet quality standards and provide a safe and nurturing environment for young children.
While I do not have access to the number Montessori centers in Singapore, however, based on available information, there are a number of centers operating primarily in the private sector.
The ECDA Framework is a guide for early childhood development in Singapore. It sets out principles, goals and areas of learning and development that are important for children in their early years. The Framework identifies six areas of learning and development that are essential for children's growth and well-being: Aesthetics and Creative Expression, Discovery of the World, Language and Literacy, Motor Skills Development, Numeracy, and Social and Emotional Development.
The Montessori early childhood education is a specific application of the Montessori method spanning across five core curriculum areas: Practical Life Skills, Sensorial Activities, Language Studies, Mathematics, and Cultural Studies. Children learn through the use of specially designed Montessori materials which are self-correcting and allow for a concrete understanding of abstract concepts.
The ECDA Framework places a strong emphasis on play-based learning which is also a core component of the Montessori education and method. Both recognizes the importance of hands-on, experiential learning and that children learn best through exploration and discovery. In addition, both ECDA and Montessori promotes independence, responsibility and self-discipline in young children, and place a strong emphasis on supporting children's individual needs and interests. Below is a quick summar of some differences in the specific curriculum and teaching methods of the two:
Approach. The ECDA Framework is a more general guide for early childhood development, while the Montessori curriculum is a specific educational approach. The ECDA framework provides guidelines and principles for early childhood education, while Montessori education follows a unique approach based on the philosophy of Maria Montessori.
Teacher Role. In the ECDA Framework, the teacher plays a central role in facilitating children's learning, while in Montessori education, the teacher is seen as a guide or facilitator who helps children explore and learn at their own pace.
Assessment. The ECDA Framework emphasizes ongoing observation and assessment of children's development, while Montessori education uses observation and record-keeping to guide the child's progress and adapt the curriculum to their needs.
Environment. Both the ECDA Framework and Montessori education emphasize the importance of creating a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for children. However, in Montessori education, the physical environment is carefully designed to support the child's learning, with materials arranged in a specific way and a focus on natural materials and beauty.
Overall, both ECDA and Montessori share a common goal of supporting children's holistic development, but they differ in their approach, curriculum development, teacher role, assessment and environment.
Discussion:
Does your school use Montessori or other curriculums? How do you go about the implementation of lesson plans while following the ECDA guidelines?
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