A key principal within the Montessori classroom, is “control of error” within the materials and presentations. So what does this mean? Simply stated, it allows children to recognize the proper manipulation of the Montessori work, allowing them to test the materials, use their reasoning skills and correct their work themselves. You can imagine the great amount of independence this creates for a child. But also think of the confidence a child develops and the decision-making skills involved when he/she can receive quick feedback, without asking a teacher or classmate for help.
Control of error is built in throughout the classroom. Sensorial materials specifically provide a visual, tactile or auditory control of error. Objects are breakable, teaching children to handle them carefully to avoid damage. Nomenclature card sets include a working set and also a control set of picture and label cards. The teacher demonstrates the use of the working set and comparison to the control set, to check the work. The child then can use the materials on his own and go back to check his work.
Control of error essentially puts control of the activity in the child’s hands, strengthening his/her self-esteem and self-motivation through learning.
