Does an online Montessori course include practical training?
APTTI's Montessori courses are online and teach the purpose and presentation of the materials, with assignments such as lesson plans. They do not include a supervised in-person practicum. You can practise with materials you make or access, and gain experience by volunteering or working as an assistant. AMI, AMS and MACTE routes include supervised practicum.
What this means in practice
Practical experience strongly improves employability.
Ways to get practice
- Volunteer in a Montessori school
- Work as an assistant
- Practise at home with your children
- Make materials
Document your practice
Keep photos (without children's faces unless you have consent) and reflections.
Building a practice portfolio
- Photos of materials you made
- Two or three lesson plans with reflections
- Anonymised observation notes (initials only)
- A reference from the school where you volunteered
Practical next steps
- Find a school to volunteer.
- Make key materials.
- Record practice.
- Reflect.
ExampleWhile studying, Tolu volunteers two mornings a week at a Montessori nursery in Lagos.
What to keep in mind
If an employer requires supervised practicum, check before enrolling.
Common follow-up questions
Is there an in-person component?
No.
Can I visit APTTI?
The Kolkata office can be visited by appointment.
Sources
- The Montessori Foundation: Becoming a Montessori teacher
- Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE)
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.