Courses and Core Practices

Course Descriptions

EDUC 300 Human Development Principles and Philosophy

Clock Hours: 54 3 units

Orientation to Montessori Principles, Practices and Programs through guided readings in Montessori textbooks (these books are included in the fee). Child, Family and Community ideals are the focus. Ten written assignments and two written observations are the culmination of this, at home, class. Additionally, the Montessori philosophy will be used in Early Childhood (2 1/2-6) education practices, along with the current implementation of the Montessori curriculum in today's classrooms.

EDUC 314 Diversity in Education, Human Development, & Child, Family and Community Clock Hours: 54 3 units

Understanding the physical, mental, emotional and social growth and development of the young child (BIRTH-6 years) through the study of a variety of child psychologists and educators. Specific details include identity, racial, family, and cultural diversity along with an in-depth look into the communities involvement of educating the whole child.

EDUC 310 Montessori Methods/Curriculum- Life Skills-Practical Life

Clock Hours: 54 3 units

The development of order, concentration, coordination and independence within the young child is rooted in the activities of Montessori's curriculum of Practical Life. The students will learn how to create activities and materials to enhance the child's growth in this area.

EDUC 320 Montessori Method/Curriculum- Sensory Motor Development

Clock Hours: 54 3 units

The development and refinement of the senses is the purpose of this area of the classroom. In this course the student learns how to recognize the needs and abilities of the young child and how to present the specific equipment designed by Dr. Montessori to further development of the total child. Additionally, principles for teaching and using music in the classroom. The student will acquire ideas for methods and materials in singing, rhythms, creative music, and listening.

EDUC 330 Montessori Methods/Curriculum- Mathematics Education

Clock Hours: 54 3 units

The development of the mathematical mind is the direct aim of the Montessori math materials for the young child. Using the materials designed by Dr. Montessori, the student will learn how to spark the interest of the young child by sequentially teaching mathematical concepts.

EDUC 340 Montessori Methods/Curriculum- Language Arts

Clock Hours: 36 2 units

The student will learn techniques for developing a reading readiness curriculum for the class. Included will be skill development in storytelling, literature-based reading readiness, phonics, beginning reading activities, poetry and song. The "whole language" approach is integrated with basic Montessori reading materials. Additionally, the student will experience curriculum timelines in order to enhance the child's classroom experience. Understanding how floor plans, placement of shelving and furniture in an environment can improve the overall success of the class.

EDUC 350 Diversity in Education- Cultural Subjects, Physical and Life Science and Social Studies

Clock Hours: 36 2 units

This course will run concurrently to core courses. Zoology/Botany includes introductions to the animal and plant kingdom. Astronomy/Physical Science includes development of classroom activities that will present the fundamental concepts of astronomy, geology, physics, and chemistry. Geography/History includes materials and ideas to develop classroom activities that will present the fundamental concepts of air, water, and the earth, and land formations. History will be taught in the format of countries, flags and national costumes. Art includes a variety of techniques with a wide variety of art media. Nutrition and Fitness includes the study of the basic nutritional, health and fitness needs of young children.

EDUC 360 Montessori Classroom Management and School Leadership

Clock Hours: 18 1 unit

This is a two semester course: Working in the classroom on a daily basis under the supervision of a master teacher, the student will have an opportunity to observe and to put into practice all of the course work required for a Montessori certification. The student shall develop objectivity and proficiency in observing and interpreting child behavior. The student will be required to study the behaviors of the student in the classroom.

EDUC 370 Student Teaching Practicum I & II ( Student Teaching )

Clock Hours: 540 10 units

Core Practices of a High Quality Teacher Education Program:

1. Cosmic Education provides the framework for each individual to answer the question, “Who am I and why am I here?” Teacher education of all levels mirrors the underpinnings of cosmic education with consistent attention to repeated and expanding experiences leading to an appreciation of the web of relationships that is the universe, through an understanding of:

· the interconnectedness of all things

· wonder and respect for the living and nonliving world

· nurturing the spirit of the child and the adolescent

· indirect and direct preparation of each activity

· sequencing based on whole-to-part-to-whole pathway

· integrated spiral curriculum

· awareness that the universe is an evolving, self-organizing force that offers many possibilities and is impacted by our actions.

2. Transformation of the Adult is an essential outcome of the teacher education course, with an emphasis on spiritual preparation, service to humanity, and the attitudes and dispositions inherent in the philosophy.

3. Education for Peace is the ultimate task of Montessori education. Intentional, peaceful communities of learners cultivate: respect for all humanity, appreciation of world cultures, and the valuing of diversity, social justice, and equality. These communities exercise trust and peaceful ways of addressing conflict and working together.

4. Respect for oneself, others, and for the environment is fostered in all interactions.

5. The Prepared Environment fosters teaching and learning through interactions with individuals and materials at the level of the course.

6. Constructivist Theory applies to all levels of Montessori education. Individuals of different ages actively construct knowledge through enriching interchanges and experiences with others and the physical environment.

7. Modeling movement, choice, peer teaching, dispositions, commitment to service, and reflective practices by teacher educators and mentors occurs so adults observe and experience Montessori theory in action.

8. Observation is of vital importance to the teaching and learning process. Teacher education programs communicate the necessity to develop increasing observation skills in one’s own classroom and other classroom environments.

9. Record keeping documents the on-going observations and learning outcomes that become the basis for future planning.

10. Assessments are part of the teaching and learning cycle. Various formats meet learners where they are and guide them forward to meet the competencies of an effective Montessori teacher.

11. An Extended Practicum Phase provides the adult learner with a teaching and learning experience under the guidance of a mentor. Observation, specific feedback, internalization, and further study guides Montessori theory into practice.

12. The Continuum of Development across time, place and culture is honored through equal appreciation of all program levels who learn from each other and respect the contributions of Montessori pioneers, leaders, and practicing and aspiring teachers.

13. Lifelong Learning is inspired by the teacher education program as part of the on-going personal and professional journey of learning, growing, observing, reflecting and researching.

AMS Teacher Education Action Commission (TEAC), Revised October 2017.

Courses and Core Practices

Course Descriptions

Core Practices of a High Quality Teacher Education Program:

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