User:Lmoncion/sandbox

Thomas More Institute
The Thomas More Institute (TMI) is a secular academic institution based in Montreal, Quebec. It offers a program of university level studies in the liberal arts.

Teaching Method
TMI's teaching is based on the Socratic method. Instead of lectures, discussions are guided by trained leaders. Students are invited to participate in a shared process of inquiry and are encouraged to view themselves as actively involved in an adventure of intellectual discovery. Participants engage in dialogue with the readings and with each other and out of these exchanges with the texts and fellow learners, there emerges a valuable learning experience and a precious sense of community.

TMI's discussion method requires rigorous exploration, clear references to common terms and respect for alternate views. The challenge in TMI courses is not for students to agree, or come to a consensus, or “group mind” but to embrace new ways of thinking that go beyond individual bias. Learning is cooperative rather than competitive, and it is fueled by active participation.

Degree Program
The majority of TMI students are not working towards a degree but take our courses out of interest, for the simple pleasure and stimulation of learning. However, it is also possible to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree through an agreement with Bishops University. Individuals working for a B.A. degree find themselves in courses beside participants with different aims and backgrounds. Some of the participants may have already earned a university degree. It is the mix of motivations and experience that makes each group unique and stimulating.