Increasingly, people choosing to further their education prefer online programs to in-person training. Advancing technology has made it easy and convenient for learners and colleges alike. But is online learning the right choice for Montessori teacher training?
Both online and in-person learning offer unique advantages and drawbacks to consider. If you’re interested in starting your Montessori training journey, here’s what you should know before making your decision.
An Overview of Montessori Teacher Training
Montessori teacher training aims to help educators, parents, and caregivers understand and implement the Montessori method.
The Montessori method is a unique, child-centered approach to education developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. An Italian doctor, Dr. Montessori, became an educator after working with children in the early 1900s. Inspired by the children and their potential, she created a revolutionary educational method that remains popular today.
Montessori teacher training covers many areas relevant to teaching and caring for children, such as:
- The Montessori philosophy and method
- The Montessori curriculum
- Montessori classroom management
- How to guide children and meet their needs in the classroom
- Using and presenting Montessori materials
The ultimate goal is for graduates to feel confident leading a classroom of children while effectively using the Montessori method.
In the Montessori method, children are grouped in mixed-age classrooms, which offers many benefits. This means training typically covers a specific age grouping, such as:
- Infants (From birth to age 2 or 3)
- Preschoolers and kindergartners (ages 2.5 to 6)
- Lower elementary (ages 6-9)
- Upper elementary (ages 9-12)
At Montessori Mantra Teacher’s Training College, we offer training focused on early childhood education, specifically for children aged 2.5 to 6 years old.
Advantages of In-Person Montessori Training in Pickering, Ontario
In-person education brings some unique benefits, no matter what the area of study. The interactions and connections created in person can’t be matched. However, Montessori training is uniquely adapted to the in-person format. Why?
The Montessori method relies heavily on physical materials and the teacher’s role in cultivating a peaceful classroom. Developing skills in these areas is easiest in an in-person environment. Here are a few examples of how this works:
Learning Materials
In the Montessori classroom, children work with learning materials to learn different concepts. Dr. Montessori believed that concrete materials help children understand complex concepts in math, language, science, and more.
For example, children may work with the Short Bead Stair to learn the numbers from 1 to 9. Another famous Montessori material is the Pink Tower. This set of ten pink cubes teaches quantities, size, and proportion.
Teachers need to learn how to use each material and how to present it correctly to children. This is much easier to do in person than online. Most importantly, in-person Montessori programs typically provide access to high-quality Montessori materials. This means you can touch the materials, move them, get tips from the instructor, and pick up on body language or facial cues.
In-person practice with Montessori learning materials can help build your confidence and skills. As a result, you’ll have an easier transition to working in a Montessori classroom after completing your training.
Role-modeling and Guidance
During in-person training, you can get invaluable feedback, tips, and mentorship from your instructors. For example, during training, you’ll practice leading lessons, conducting a circle, or managing the classroom. Your instructor can give you real-time feedback and tips that will improve your skills.
Another advantage of in-person programs is the opportunity to complete a practicum or internship. The value of observing a working classroom and practicing teacher skills is unmatched.
Practice Makes Perfect
In her writings, Dr. Montessori highlighted the importance of practice. Following the Montessori philosophy can be challenging, especially when you’re just getting started. It requires a lot of patience and practice to learn to respect the child’s concentration, know when to intervene, and how to cultivate a peaceful classroom.
As she explained in her own words, “The teacher’s skill in not interfering comes with practice, like everything else, but it never comes easily. It means rising to spiritual heights. True spirituality realises that even to help can be a source of pride.”
In-person training ensures you get the chance to practice these essential skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Disadvantages of In-Person Montessori Training in Pickering, Ontario
Despite the many advantages an in-person Montessori training program offers, there are also some drawbacks. Some of the main disadvantages include:
Time Commitment
An in-person program typically requires a greater time commitment than an online program. You may need to commute to the class location. Also, if you’re a parent, attending class means you may need to coordinate childcare.
Less Flexibility
In-person training typically offers less flexibility related to class times and schedules. Online programs are often more accommodating. You may be able to complete asynchronous coursework whenever it’s convenient for you.
That said, many in-person Montessori programs also offer evening or weekend classes, making it possible to fit a course into your busy schedule.
Advantages of Online Montessori Training
An online Montessori course offers many benefits, especially for people with more restrictive schedules or circumstances. Some of the main advantages include:
Saves Time
Taking an online course can often save you the time you would need to spend commuting. All you need to do is log on to your meeting or course and get started.
Flexibility
In addition to being able to complete lessons when convenient, online courses can also be flexible in pacing. You can often work through lessons whenever you’d like, working more quickly when you have more time and slowing down when you need a break.
Disadvantages of Online Montessori Training
What are the drawbacks of online learning for Montessori training? Many topics, including the Montessori philosophy and theory, adapt well to the online format. However, teaching is a hands-on profession. In-person experiences, practice, interactions, observation, and instructor support provide a foundation that’s hard to match online.
Not All Concepts Adapt Well Online
Some specific areas of Montessori training that are more effective in person include:
- Learning how to use and present Montessori learning materials
- Practicing teaching and classroom management skills
- Observing a live classroom
- Getting feedback from instructors
Chart: Online vs. In-Person Montessori Training
To help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages, consider this chart comparing online and in-person Montessori teacher training.
| In-Person Montessori Training | Online Montessori Training | |
| Advantages | Learning materials Role modeling and guidance Opportunity to practice | Saves time Flexibility |
| Disadvantages | Time commitment is often greater Less flexibility | Not all concepts adapt well to online learning (learning materials, guidance during practice, and classroom observation) |
Choosing Between an Online and In-Person Montessori Training
As you consider Montessori teacher training, the right format ultimately depends on your situation and priorities. For those who need greater flexibility, an online program may be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for opportunities to practice and gain valuable experience as a Montessori teacher in addition to mastering theory, an in-person program is a better option.
Keep in mind that even more important than the format is the quality of the training. When evaluating programs, seek out schools led by an expert with experience in the Montessori method. Instructors with experience and a strong Montessori background will provide wisdom, strategies, and tips that make all the difference in your training.
In-Person Montessori Training in Pickering, Ontario
Montessori Mantra Teacher’s Training College offers in-person Montessori training in Pickering, Ontario. Discover our comprehensive Montessori Diploma Course, Assistant’s Course, and Professional Development Workshops.
Each of our courses and workshops brings the expertise of our founder, Nandita Agarwala, who has been a Montessori educator since 1987.
Get in touch to learn more about our programs and which one is the best fit for you!
