AIMA® is pleased to offer an IME Certificate Course entitled: Introduction to IME Theory and Philosophy. The first of its kind, anywhere, and the only IME Certificate Course sponsored and endorsed by AIMA, it provides educators an opportunity to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation for the power and influence of IME. More than simply the application of Montessori methodology in an Islamic school environment, IME represents the synthesis, the fusion, of Islam and Montessori – and its practice represents a fundamental shift from the educational establishment of the West.
The IME Certificate Course invites participants to step “outside the box” to examine the philosophical and intellectual parameters that comprise the educational systems and structures implicit to Western education. It encourages participants to scrutinize, analyze, and challenge prevailing beliefs; to reflect deeply and thoughtfully about those beliefs; and to engage in respectful, constructive dialogue and debate about costs/benefits, values, and differential belief systems. Most of all, the IME Certificate Course provides educators an opportunity to meld their love of Islam with the pedagogy of Montessori education by helping them to define, refine, and establish best practices in high-fidelity, IME.
At this time, the IME Certificate Course is available in person, at our St. Louis Education Center, only. Our first cohort of educators enrolled and began their journey in the IME Certificate Course in August 2021. We extend a special thanks to AIMA’s founding members of Al-Salam Day School Early Childhood Center (Ballwin, MO), who have undertaken this important step in their own professional development.
We look forward to offering the on-line version of the IME Certificate Course beginning Spring 2022. Enrollment opens in January. If you are interested in participating in the next cohort, or if you would like to learn how your school can become a member of AIMA, please email info@theaima.org.