Beth Yeshua International (BYI) is an international organization dedicated to providing quality Christian education in a modular homeschool program. The BYI curriculum is designed to meet the needs of homeschoolers who are looking for an immersive learning experience and are seeking to develop a comprehensive understanding of the academic, spiritual, and moral values of the Christian faith. But with so many options on the market, how can you be sure you’re choosing the best curriculum for your needs?
Here are 15 questions to consider when selecting the homeschool curriculum for BYI.
1. What Learning Styles Does the Curriculum Support?
No two homeschoolers learn the same way. Some prefer a more hands-on experience with activities and experiments, while others may be more comfortable with online courses or print materials.
When selecting a homeschool curriculum for BYI, it’s important to consider your individual needs, and what style of learning best suits you. Look for programs that provide interactive lessons, projects, and activities that fit a variety of learning styles. Programs that provide options such as videos, podcasts, worksheets, and lessons are ideal for BYI homeschoolers who learn best through a combination of teaching methods.
2. What Format Does the Curriculum Use?
BYI offers modular homeschooling, which students complete at their own pace — either independently, or with the assistance of an AT home instructor. Therefore, the materials you choose should be compatible with this type of education.
Generally, you should look for curricula that are interactive and provide a variety of formats: from digital media, to print books. Curricula that take advantage of interactive technology, such as virtual classrooms, discussion boards for during-class or after-class engagement, and quizzes are ideal for BYI students.
3. How Flexible and Adaptable is the Curriculum?
BYI curriculum is designed to meet the needs of homeschoolers who are looking for a personalized learning experience. Look for a program that provides flexible learning paths that can be tailored to individual student needs.
For example, if you only need certain topics, find a course or program with options to customize the materials so you can focus on the topics of greatest interest. Also consider the accessibility of the course materials on the go — for example, the availability of audio and video content, and online or mobile access to particular lessons and activities.
4. Is There Enough Materials for the Entire Program?
Not all BYI curricula are designed to meet the needs of homeschoolers pursuing a full program. Some are intended to supplement existing curricula, or provide additional support for particular subjects or activities.
Make sure to read the details and check if there is enough materials — including books, activities and lessons — to complete the entire program.
5. Are The Materials and Activities Appropriate?
The BYI organization is committed to providing a quality, Christian-based education. It is important to look for curricula that reflect this emphasis, and that use appropriate materials and activities that promote Christian values. Look for programs that are interactive and provide engaging activities, materials, and discussions that are centered on Biblical principles and ideas.
6. How Relevant is the Curriculum?
When selecting a homeschool curriculum for BYI, it’s important that it is up to date and relevant to today’s world. The organization is dedicated to providing quality education from a Christian perspective, so look for programs that provide real-world examples related to character, faith, and Christian living.
7. What Support Does the Company Offer?
Look for a homeschool curriculum for BYI that comes with the support of experienced instructors or tutors. Most programs will offer online lessons and forums where questions can be asked and answers can be given.
Examine the types of support the program offers: Are the staff knowledgeable and experienced? Are there newsletters, live chats, and sample lessons? A good program should provide a variety of options for support.
8. Are Projects, Assignments, and Tests Available?
BYI curriculum includes projects, assignments, and tests to help students apply the knowledge they have learned. Depending on the type of program you select, resources may be available to assess student progress.
Consider programs that include assessments and projects to help build skills and retain knowledge.
9. Are There Opportunities for Online Learning?
An online homeschool program is often the most efficient way for BYI students to stay on track with their academics. Look for curricula that provide interactive lessons, podcasts, videos, and other forms of media.
Take advantage of programs that also offer online classes or seminars with qualified instructors. Most online homeschool curricula offer virtual classrooms where students can pose questions or start discussions.
10. What Extras Does the Curriculum Offer?
Ideally, a BYI homeschool curriculum should include extracurricular activities that promote creativity and character building. Depending on the program, you may find projects, field trips, and virtual internships to supplement learning and provide a more robust and immersive educational experience.
Special perks can also be a plus – such as educational videos, experiments, and fun activities that allow students to explore and learn in a more entertaining way.
11. What Certificates and Diplomas Are Available?
If a diploma or certification is your goal, BYI has partnered with accredited institutions such as Liberty University and the University of New England to offer articulated courses and certificates. Check with the institution or program of your choice to see if these types of credits or certifications are accepted.
Some programs will also provide additional support for the development, presentation, and management of an online or paper portfolio.
12.What is the Cost?
Costs can vary greatly and can include fees for enrollment, curriculum, tutors, and additional services. Compare and contrast different programs to see which one best fits with your budget. Online courses may be cheaper, as can some independent study options.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of additional resources such as books, magazines, and materials.
13. Are Scholarships or Grants Available?
Some homeschool curricula offer discounted rates or scholarships for eligible students. Check with the program of your choice to see if they have any options that allow students to participate at a reduced rate.
There are also grants available for those interested in pursuing their higher education. Additionally, BYI works with several partners, such as Bekah Education and Accelerate Education, to provide grants and discounts for BYI families.
14. Are the Materials Available in Different Languages?
BYI curriculum is international, and programs should be available in a variety of languages to accommodate different countries and families. Look for a program that uses reliable translation and offers materials in multiple languages such as English, Spanish, and French.
15. Are There Options for Continuing Education?
BYI offers options for continuing education beyond the traditional homeschool program. There are a variety of options to consider, including the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, the College of Engineering, the College of Humanities, and the School of Ministry.
Check with the program of your choice to see if these types of credits or certifications are accepted.
Conclusion
Selecting the best homeschool curriculum for Beth Yeshua International can be a daunting task. Defining your individual needs and selecting a program that meets your goals is the best way to ensure a successful homeschool experience that promotes the Christian values and principles the BYI organization is committed to providing. By taking into account the flexibility of the program, the support it offers, the availability of activities, and other elements such as certificates and grants, you can be sure to end up with a program that best suits your needs and helps you to achieve your educational goals.