Reach and Relationship: A Review of the Joint Literature of Montessori and Self-Determination Theory

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: Montessori Education SIG Roundtable

Abstract

Montessori education is well-aligned with self-determination theory (SDT), a theory of motivation that posits humans thrive when environments meet their basic psychological needs for autonomy, relatedness, and competence. The student choice, self-correcting materials, and opportunities for collaboration fulfill these needs in the Montessori classroom. Montessori scholar Angeline Lillard, and Richard Ryan and Edward Deci, founders of SDT, have all acknowledged this alignment. Despite this congruence, a review revealed fewer than 50 papers incorporating Montessori and SDT, ranging from remarks on the similarities to classroom-based action research. Over half were unpublished student work. To better substantiate the Montessori/SDT relationship and increase the reach of Montessori research, this review of the literature suggests more cross-theory work and publication support for student authors.

Authors

• Jennifer D. Moss, Emporia State University

• Abigail Smuda