OVERVIEW OF THE AMI INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI TEACHER TRAINING COURSE (12-18 YEARS OLD)

Montessori Vietnam Education (MVEC) is an authorized center by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) to provide official AMI training programs.

Link: https://montessori-ami.org/training-programmes/training-centres

With the desire to spread the authentic Montessori educational philosophy and accompany those passionate about child development on their journey to becoming professional Montessori educators, we are pleased to announce the enrollment for the International Montessori Teacher Training Course, certified by the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).

This is a valuable opportunity for you to gain profound knowledge, refined pedagogical skills, and, especially, love and respect for the child in the true Montessori spirit. The course will equip you with a solid foundation to create inspiring educational environments where every child is free to explore, develop holistically, and unlock their full potential.

The AMI International Montessori Teacher Training Program for the 12-18 age group (also known as the Montessori Adolescent Program or Erdkinder) focuses on preparing teachers to deeply understand and meet the specific developmental needs of adolescents during this stage. This is a crucial transition period from childhood to adulthood, involving many physical, psychological, and social changes.

Overview of Philosophy and Objectives

This program is based on Maria Montessori's philosophy of "Erdkinder" (children of the Earth), emphasizing the provision of a practical living environment, immersed in nature and community, where adolescents can:

• Develop Social Consciousness and Responsibility: Through practical activities, manual labor, and participation in a small, self-governing community, students learn to work together, solve problems, and contribute to the collective.
• Build Independence and Self-Reliance: Adolescents are encouraged to make decisions and take responsibility for their learning and lives, preparing them for their role as adults in society.
• Connect Theory with Practice: Learning is not confined to textbooks but is linked to real-world experiences, research projects, and meaningful work.
• Develop Intellect and Critical Thinking: Encourages curiosity, questioning, analysis, and evaluation of social, scientific, and historical issues.
• Understand Self and Place in Society: This stage focuses on adolescents discovering themselves, becoming aware of physical and psychological changes, and their role in the broader community.

Core Content of the Teacher Training Program

The AMI teacher training course for the 12-18 age group not only provides theoretical knowledge but also equips practical skills to create an ideal "Erdkinder" environment. The main contents include:

1. Advanced Montessori Theory and Philosophy:
   • In-depth study of human developmental planes, particularly the 12-18 age group with its specific physiological, psychological, social, and emotional characteristics.
   • Understanding Montessori's "Planes of Development" and the role of adults in supporting adolescents.
   • Focus on the concept of "Valorization" – the process by which adolescents develop self-confidence and personal worth through purposeful labor.
2. The "Erdkinder" Environment and Its Preparation:
   • Design and Organization of the Learning Environment: Unlike traditional classrooms, the Montessori environment for adolescents is often a farm, a small workshop, or a community space that allows for practical labor.
   • Areas of Work: Including agriculture, animal husbandry, crafts, culinary arts, financial management, small business, etc. These activities not only build skills but also help students understand production cycles, the value of labor, and their role in the economy.
   • Community Structure and Rules: Guidance on establishing a self-governing community where students participate in setting and maintaining rules and resolving conflicts.
3. Interdisciplinary Curriculum (Cosmic Education for Adolescents):
   • Knowledge Integration: Instead of separate subjects, the program encourages interdisciplinary learning, connecting fields such as natural sciences, history, geography, literature, mathematics, and arts through large projects and research topics.
   • Research and Exploration: Guides students to conduct independent research projects, from formulating questions, seeking information, analyzing data, to presenting findings.
   • Critical Thinking and Ethics: Encourages discussions on social issues, ethics, justice, and the individual's role in creating positive change.
4. Role of the Teacher (Guide):
   • Observer and Guide: The teacher acts as a keen observer, deeply understanding the needs of each student and providing necessary support without excessive intervention.
   • Connector: Connects students with resources, community experts, and learning opportunities outside the main environment.
   • Role Model: Demonstrates respect, responsibility, and a lifelong learning spirit.
   • Emotional and Social Development Support: Guides students through the challenges of adolescence, developing communication skills, conflict resolution, and healthy relationship building.
5. Practice and Observation:
   • A significant part of the training course involves practical experience and observation in active Montessori environments for adolescents.
   • Trainees will be guided on how to observe scientifically, record, and analyze student behavior, as well as how to prepare and maintain the environment.

The AMI International Montessori Teacher Training Program for the 12-18 age group goes beyond a typical pedagogical course. It is an in-depth journey that equips educators with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to create a revolutionary educational environment where adolescents are respected, empowered, and comprehensively prepared to become responsible adults who contribute to society.

Sincerely,

MONTESSORI VIETNAM EDUCATION (MVEC)