Philosopher Matt Bateman and co-founder of Higher Ground Montessori discusses the Montessori approach, its origins, and its place in alternative education. They explore motivating children, creating conducive learning environments, and controversial educational topics like homeschooling and unschooling. They also discuss the need for educational innovation and the intersection of education and culture.

Matt Bateman, a key figure at Higher Ground Education and an expert in early childhood education, dives deep into the complexities of the childcare industry. He discusses the tangled economics of childcare, highlighting the financial pressures and rising labor shortages that plague this sector. The conversation uncovers innovative solutions to increase access and affordability, while addressing societal perceptions of early education jobs and the need for policy reform. Bateman explores how to elevate this essential industry amidst its ongoing challenges.

Matt Bateman, co-founder of Higher Ground Montessori and former philosophy professor, joins the discussion on the impact of AI in education. He shares insights on how AI tools can enhance learning but also lead to cheating. Matt highlights children’s fleeting interest in AI products and the importance of maintaining traditional teaching methods. He emphasizes the need to prepare kids for a tech-infused world while advocating for better writing instruction amidst rising AI reliance.

Matt Bateman, educator and part of the founding team of Higher Ground Education, discusses the Montessori program, technology and social media's impact on kids, failures of public schools, and the importance of kids' autonomy. He also explores the challenges of parenting in public and the evolution of education models.

We're joined today by Matt Bateman, one of the founders of Higher Ground Education, to discuss the Montessori method of education and how it compares to other teaching methodologies. Get ready for tiny furniture, putting on your jacket upside down, and teaching your toddler to make eggs benedict. We discuss: Maria Montessori What is a Montessori education (besides tiny furniture)? How Montessori classrooms differ from regular ones Why long periods of interrupted problem solving is important for a child's development How Montessori integrates with technology Drawbacks of traditional methods of testing and grading, and how they might be amended The importance of cultivating a love of work How Matt wants to reform high school education Bio: Matt is one of the founders of Higher Ground Education, a worldwide Montessori network. He runs Montessorium, Higher Ground’s think tank. He holds a PhD in philosophy from the University of Pennsylvania, where he focused on the philosophy of science. Make sure to follow him on twitter for some golden education nuggets References: Matt on the Where We Go Next (formerly New Liberals) podcast. Montessorium Vocational Training for the Soul: Bringing the Meaning of Work to Schools Matt's History of Education Course Social media everywhere Follow us on Twitter at @IncrementsPod, @BennyChugg, @VadenMasrani Check us out on youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_4wZzQyoW4s4ZuE4FY9DQQ Come join our discord server! DM us on twitter or send us an email to get a supersecret link Special Guest: Matt Bateman.Support Increments