Which educational approach emphasizes children's self-directed, experiential learning?

The Montessori Method is centered around the principles of self-directed, experiential learning, making it the correct choice. This approach was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, who emphasized the importance of allowing children to explore at their own pace in a prepared environment. In Montessori classrooms, children have the freedom to choose activities that interest them, fostering intrinsic motivation and promoting independence.

This method ensures that learning is personalized and directed by the child's interests and abilities, rather than being dictated solely by the teacher. The role of the educator is to facilitate and guide rather than to instruct directly, allowing children to engage in hands-on learning experiences that encourage exploration and discovery.

The other approaches listed, while having their own merits, do not prioritize the same level of self-directed learning as the Montessori method. The Socratic Method focuses on dialogue and critical questioning; Traditional Education tends to follow a more structured and teacher-led instruction model; and Freire's Critical Pedagogy emphasizes social justice and critical reflection rather than a primary focus on self-directed experiential learning.