Exploring the Impact of Montessori Approach on Early Reading: Case of Private Schools in Tiaret

Abstract

Early language development is crucial, especially for the development of reading skills, hence appropriate teaching strategies must be used throughout this phase. Unfortunately, the methods used in language instruction nowadays are frequently critiqued for being inadequate and insufficient in meeting the needs and interests of young learners. This research aims to investigate the extent to which the Montessori approach is effective in teaching and learning early reading skills as an alternative to traditional methods. In order to accomplish this objective, a mixed-method approach is used where three research instruments have been employed: a questionnaire addressed to teachers in private schools in Tiaret, a classroom observation, as well as a test as a quasi-experimental approach. Based on an in-depth analysis of the results, the Montessori approach has been demonstrated to effectively teach early reading skills besides being fun and catering for different learning styles. It is suggested for use in language syllabi, either partially or entirely.