What is the difference between AMI and AMS?
AMI, founded by Maria Montessori in 1929, keeps closely to her original method and materials and trains teachers through its own trainers and centres. AMS, founded in the USA in 1960, affiliates a wider range of programmes and allows more adaptation to modern contexts. Both are respected; AMI is more traditional and AMS more flexible.
What this means in practice
Many schools hire teachers from either.
Key differences
- Founding: AMI 1929, AMS 1960
- Approach: AMI classic; AMS adaptive
- Training: AMI-trained trainers; AMS affiliated programmes
- Recognition: both international
Which to choose?
Depends on where you want to work and cost.
Practical next steps
- Research both.
- Check employer preference.
- Compare costs.
- Choose.
ExampleA teacher choosing between AMI and AMS in Asia picks based on which schools near her hire.
What to keep in mind
Neither applies to APTTI's courses.
Common follow-up questions
Is one better?
Neither is universally better.
Are they compatible?
Both follow Montessori principles.
Sources
Examples are educational illustrations with made-up names. How these answers are prepared.