For years, parents have been debating the merits of formal public school education versus homeschooling. While homeschooling can provide students with greater flexibility, individualized attention, and the ability to pursue passions outside of the regular curriculum, people wonder if the educational experience is truly comparable to a public schooling.
This article will explore the evidence to determine whether homeschooled children usually perform as well as those who attend public school.
#1: What is Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is a method of education in which parents or tutors deliver instruction to their children at home, instead of sending them to a traditional public or private school. .
It is considered by proponents to be an alternative to the traditional education system, allowing for greater flexibility. Parents can decide on their own academic calendar, curriculum, and learning materials, and may be able to provide their children with a broader range of topics than what’s offered in public or private schools. Additionally, homeschooling allows children with special needs or medical issues to remain at home, instead of potentially disrupting their education with frequent absences.
#2: Socialization and Homeschooling
A common concern people have when considering homeschooling is the question of socialization. Some worry that children who are homeschooled won’t have the same level of socialization as those who attend school.
This can be true to an extent, though many homeschoolers will find ways to engage with other children through extracurricular activities, church groups, and other social circles. Homeschoolers may also spend time with peers when attending special classes or seminars. Additionally, homeschooling allows for more one-on-one interaction with adults, providing children with positive role models in the community and more individualized attention.
#3: Why Public School is Preferred
In most Western countries, public school is the traditional method of education. There are many reasons why parents prefer public schools to homeschooling.
Public schools offer a range of extracurricular activities, exposing their students to a range of topics and giving them a social outlet. Additionally, public schools usually have more resources at their disposal, meaning they can assign students to specialized classes and provide a more in-depth learning experience. Public schools are also popular because they offer standardized testing and a clear pathway for college admission.
#4: How Do Homeschooled Students Perform Academically?
When considering homeschooling versus public schools, one of the primary concerns is academic performance. Studies have suggested that homeschooled children tend to outperform those enrolled in public schools on standardized tests, particularly on the SAT and ACT. Furthermore, homeschooled children appear to be less likely to struggle in college, with lower dropout rates and, in some studies, higher GPA scores in college.
However, it’s important to note that there is no clear consensus as to whether homeschooling provides better academic results.
#5: Pros of Homeschooling
Homeschooling has many advantages over traditional public schooling. Primarily, homeschooling allows parents and students to tailor a curriculum to best fit their needs and interests.
Instead of having a teacher assign material, the student can set the pace and explore topics that they’re passionate about. Additionally, homeschooling allows parents to be personally involved in their children’s education, giving them a hands-on role in their success. Homeschooling also allows for greater flexibility, so that parents can take their child on field trips or vacations without falling behind.
Finally, homeschooling is relatively low-cost and doesn’t require taxes or fees like public schools.
#6: Cons of Homeschooling
Though homeschooling does have some advantages, there are some drawbacks. Most obviously, homeschooling puts the responsibility of educating a child on the parents, who may or may not be adequately prepared to take on such a task.
Additionally, homeschooling can require a lot of time and dedication from parents, which can be particularly difficult if they have other commitments such as full-time jobs. Furthermore, homeschooling requires children to miss out on team activities, interaction with other students, and friendships that might be forged in a public school.
#7: Approaches to Homeschooling
There are a number of different approaches to homeschooling, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Structured homeschooling involves following a strict schedule, while unschooling follows the student’s interests, allowing greater freedom and creativity. Charlotte Mason homeschooling relies heavily on literature, while classical homeschooling emphasizes memorization and repetition.
Montessori homeschooling focuses on hands-on learning and self-directed study, while unit studies base lessons around one particular theme. Ultimately, each of these approaches has its own merits, and the best choice for a family will depend on their individual preferences and values.
#8: Homeschooling in Different Countries
Homeschooling is popular throughout the world, though the prevalence of this method of education varies from country to country. In the United States, about
5-4% of students are homeschooled. In Canada, around 5% of students are homeschooled.
In the United Kingdom, most parents choose to send their children to traditional public or private schools, with only 0. 3% of students enrolling in homeschooling. Australia and New Zealand both have laws allowing homeschooling, though the numbers of homeschooled students tend to be fairly low.
#9: Common Challenges of Homeschooling
Homeschooling is considered a viable alternative to public schooling, though it has its own set of challenges. Parents must be well-versed in the subjects they are teaching and must be willing to be committed to the process for the long haul.
Additionally, homeschooling may mean missing out on extracurricular activities or team sports, which can be difficult for some parents and children. The process may also become overwhelming or monotonous at times if the parent doesn’t properly plan ahead.
#10: Financial Implications of Homeschooling
It’s also important to consider the financial implications of homeschooling. Public schools are usually free, which means that homeschooling could involve additional costs for learning materials, textbooks, and supplies. Additionally, some states require homeschoolers to pay for standardized tests or pay for their child’s curriculum to be evaluated.
Furthermore, some states require homeschoolers to pay taxes. Ultimately, the financial implications vary from state to state, so it’s important to research the laws in the relevant jurisdiction.
#11: Homeschooling Resources
Fortunately, there are a number of resources available for homeschoolers. Homeschooling websites offer resources for parents and students, including lesson plans, educational materials, and online courses.
Local libraries and bookstores can provide learning materials, while universities and community colleges may be able to provide guest lectures. There are even some public schools that offer classes and activities specifically for homeschoolers.
#12: Family Factors
Ultimately, a family’s decision to homeschool or not homeschool should come down to their own preferences and values. Thus, it’s important to consider personal and family factors when making this decision. Some of the factors to consider include the parents’ knowledge and willingness to teach, the child’s individual needs, the number of children in the household, and the family’s financial situation.
Once these issues are assessed, parents can make an informed decision about homeschooling versus public school.
#13: Conclusion
In conclusion, homeschooling is a viable alternative to public/private schooling for families who deem it to be the best fit for their lifestyle. Studies suggest that homeschooled children can often perform as well (or better) academically than children enrolled in public schools, though this isn’t always the case. Ultimately, the decision to homeschool is a personal matter, and parents should make the decision that is best for their family.
For those families considering homeschooling, there are a number of resources available to ensure their success.