Limitations

​This study offers valuable insights into the impact of Montessori math materials on math fluency but has several limitations:
  1. Qualitative Nature: The study relies on interviews with a limited number of Montessori educators, which may not reflect the diversity of experiences across the broader Montessori community.
  2. Sample Size and Selection: Convenience sampling from specific Montessori schools may limit the generalizability of the findings to all Montessori settings.
  3. Reliance on Educator Reports: The study does not include direct observation or assessment of student outcomes, relying instead on potentially biased self-reported data from educators.
  4. Implementation Variability: The study did not explore differences in the implementation of Montessori methods and use of non-Montessori materials, which could affect outcomes.
  5. Focus on Elementary Education: Findings may not be applicable to other age groups within the Montessori system due to developmental differences.
These limitations suggest that caution should be exercised when applying the findings broadly across Montessori educational settings.

Suggestions for Future Research

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Mixed-Methods Approach: Future studies should combine qualitative insights from educators with quantitative data on student performance. This would correlate educator perceptions with actual student outcomes, providing a more comprehensive and objective measure of the impact of Montessori math materials on math fluency.
​Broader and Diverse Sample: Research should include a wider variety of Montessori schools from different geographical regions and diverse student populations. This would help assess the generalizability of the findings and understand how contextual factors influence the integration and effectiveness of Montessori and supplementary materials.
  1. Implementation Fidelity: Studies should investigate how faithfully Montessori principles are applied when integrating non-Montessori materials and the role of teacher training in this process. This research could guide the development of best practices for incorporating digital tools and other resources in Montessori classrooms.
  2. Longitudinal Studies: Research tracking student progress over time is needed to determine the long-term effects of using Montessori materials and supplementary digital tools on math fluency. This would provide valuable insights into the sustained impacts of these educational strategies on math skills development.
Continuing this research is crucial to ensure that Montessori educators have evidence-based strategies to enhance math instruction. By understanding the long-term and diverse impacts of Montessori methods and integrated technologies, educators can better support students' math development and adapt to evolving educational needs.