The first connection I noticed between most of the theorists was the idea of observation as a means of assessment. Dewey, Montessori and Vygotsky believed that the teacher's role is to assess what the student needs by watching them as they work through discovery, play and development. They believed that a student would express their academic needs in one way or another and it was the educator's role to adjust to fit their needs.
Another connection that stuck out to me is the fact that Erikson, Montessori and Piaget believed that children would gain the most out of learning experiences that were actual real life situations. Trusting that children are capable of making responsible decisions and using real tools can be incredibly beneficial to a child's developmental skills. Seeing how something works provides a deeper understanding that just reading it in a book and memorizing.
The last connection I wanted to discuss is that both Dewey and Erikson emphasize the importance of being aware of each child's individual difference that may effect how they learn. Dewey says that keeping the families values and culture in mind and incorporating that into school will make their learning rich and meaningful. Erickson believes that individual differences not only will effect development but can also alter the students capabilities day to day. Knowing your students and where they come from will be a great tool to connecting and knowing what they are capable of.
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