Honors Program Theses
Award/Availability
Open Access Honors Program Thesis
First Advisor
Morgan Anderson
Abstract
This research focused on the unique and innovative ways two Montessori Schools handled the pandemic in the context of Iowa’s COVID-19 regulations. Research focused on the state of Iowa due to its relevance and proximity to the researcher and its notably relaxed approaches to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the purpose and scope of this study, research focused on two Montessori contexts within the state of Iowa. While this research is not representative of all Montessori schools in Iowa, it provides useful insight into the topic that can support further research on Montessori approaches to COVID-19.
The driving question behind this research was, “How did two Montessori schools in Iowa, with their emphasis on hands-on, exploratory learning, navigate the challenges associated with the pandemic?” Three interviews with Montessori educators provided insight into their lived experiences teaching in Iowa before, during, and after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Ultimately, this research identified how Iowa Montessori educators prioritized emotional connections, adapted Montessori materials and methods, and witnessed changes within their students in response to COVID-19. This research sheds light on the successes and struggles that Montessori educators faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, in hopes that educators, parents, and administrators can prepare to better serve students in all educational settings if the status quo of education is once again threatened.
Year of Submission
2024
Department
Department of Educational Psychology and Foundations
University Honors Designation
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the designation University Honors
Date Original
12-2024
Object Description
1 PDF (81 pages)
Copyright
©2024 Ellie Penick
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Recommended Citation
Penick, Ellie, "A Qualitative Case Study of Montessori Approaches to Learning Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic in Iowa" (2024). Honors Program Theses. 966.
https://scholarworks.uni.edu/hpt/966
