Montessori Elementary Diploma Course - Part 1 (MACTE-accredited)

September 23, 2011

Montessori Elementary Diploma Course - Part 1 (MACTE accredited)
(Children ages 6 - 9 years)  *New Online Theory*

Overview

Dr. Montessori saw education as a natural process for children. This vision is implemented through the experience and wisdom of highly competent, international Montessori trainers. Learning includes a voyage of personal discovery for student teachers. The Montessori philosophy and the cosmic curriculum, which is at the heart of the course, is offered within the framework of contemporary child development. Developmentally appropriate materials support all learning concepts and are modelled within the prepared environment. This course (a minimum of 200 contact hours) provides the following curriculum areas:

• Historic foundations of the scientific approach to Montessori education and philosophy
• Stages of child development in the contemporary context
• Daily life activities, including practical skills
• Sensorial development as a foundation for intellectual life
• Language and literature
• Mathematics and Geometry
• The Cultural subjects of Geography, History, Biology, and Science
• The Management of the Montessori learning environment
• Leadership skills and community outreach
• Peace Studies

Aims

• To place Montessori philosophy and the cosmic curriculum at the core of this child-centred learning experience
• To provide trainee teachers with the keys to understand the relevant practical skills to meet the needs of the child
• To train competent teachers according to the standards of the best Montessori schools

Objectives

To implement the aims and enjoy the outcomes of this course, the student teacher will need to experience a change of heart. This voyage of personal discovery will allow the student teacher to value the children's efforts as they strive to achieve individual potential. Dr. Montessori tells us: "Education is not something which the teacher does, but that it is a natural process which develops spontaneously in the human being."

Outcomes

The Montessori Elementary - Part 1 teacher will:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the interrelatedness of the cosmic curriculum
• Demonstrate theoretical knowledge of relevant research findings in the fields of child development as related to the elementary-aged child of 6 - 9 years, based on programmes that have been and are currently being developed
• Plan programmes that meet the individual needs and interests of children appropriate to their development, sociocultural background and experience level
• Evaluate children's learning using clearly defined tools
• Design and evaluate curriculum materials and resources appropriate to children with varying abilities and cultural backgrounds
• Demonstrate leadership skills and involvement in the community served

Intended Audience

• Those who wish to train as Montessori Elementary teachers with children between the ages of 6 and 9 years of age
• Recent qualified immigrants to Ontario who wish to adapt their current skills and knowledge
• Individuals seeking a career change
• Practicing teachers who wish to participate in Montessori education

Teaching Practice and Internship

This integral aspect of the course consists of training in an approved Montessori school under the direction and guidance of an experienced Montessori certified teacher, who acts as a personal mentor. The period of internship is one academic year. During this year, the student teacher observes, assists and joins in all aspects of the educational and management process in the host school. Additional independent study, material making, research and projects are required.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must have a degree from a recognized university. See Application Process.