Montessori Distance Learning Programs - Deciding if Training is Right for You

I first learned about Montessori education when I enrolled my son in our town’s Montessori program. What began as a decision made in desperation quickly turned into a passion for all things Montessori and I set about searching for a Montessori training center.

I was disappointed to learn that the majority of Montessori training centers required me to attend in person for at least six weeks for two summers. I was a single mother and there was absolutely no way I could leave my 6-year-old son to obtain my certification.

Finding a Montessori Training Program to Fit Your Life - The Benefits of Distance Learning

In addition, we relied solely on my income. Obtaining my Montessori diploma meant that not only would I have to pay the program fees, but also that I would have to give up six weeks of income as well, not to mention travel and housing costs. Broken hearted, I resigned myself to the fact that I would never be able to fulfill my dream of becoming a Montessori teacher.

Then, one night as I was surfing the web, I came across the North American Montessori Center’s (NAMC) website. By completing my Montessori studies via NAMC’s distance learning program, I would be able to stay home with my son, continue working, and obtain my Montessori training at the same time. While it seemed too good to be true, more research proved that this was indeed the right path to follow.

Distance learning, or online or e-learning, is a viable and popular option for those seeking an alternative to conventional learning environments. In fact, from 2008–2013, student enrollment in online courses rose 96 per cent (Bokan, 2013)!

Montessori distance education provides some definite advantages over traditional settings:

• Choice — Students have the opportunity to choose training based on the program versus geographic location.
• Flexibility — Students can stay home and keep working, studying at their own pace, when and where it is convenient for them.
• Tuition — Distance learning classes often have a monetary savings over traditional residential programs. Students also save by not having to travel to and from the training center.
• Accessibility — Students with restricted mobility or learning challenges find distance learning courses easier to access.

When trying to decide if a distance learning program is right for you, a primary consideration should be time management. Research has shown that the ability to manage one’s time is the most significant factor for successfully completing a distance education program. However, by using time management strategies such as a weekly study schedule, you can complete the program and do so successfully! Ultimately, only you will be able to decide if distance learning is right for you. I can certainly say that completing my NAMC certification was a decision I have never regretted.

As much as possible, NAMC’s web blog reflects the Montessori curriculum as provided in its teacher training programs. We realize and respect that Montessori schools are unique and may vary their schedules and offerings in accordance with the needs of their individual communities. We hope that our readers will find our articles useful and inspiring as a contribution to the global Montessori community.
© North American Montessori Center - originally posted in its entirety at Montessori Teacher Training on Tuesday, July 9, 2013.