Homeschooling has been steadily growing in popularity since it began in the 1970s. Today, approximately 3% of the total school-aged population in the US is homeschooled.
Homeschoolers are typically motivated by a desire to offer their children unique educational opportunities not available in a traditional school setting. While homeschools do not have the same structure as a traditional school, homeschoolers still must learn and complete assignments like any other student. This article will explain how homeschoolers study and the various methods they use to do so.
Looking at Different Homeschool Curricula
Homeschool curricula are the fundamental building blocks of homeschool instruction. Curricula include textbooks, maps, library books, worksheets and any other materials used to teach a child. Most homeschool families have an individualized curriculum, tailored to meet the needs of the student and the goals of the family.
Homeschoolers may use an assortment of traditional textbooks, online resources, and videos to complete their curriculum. Many families choose to use a combination of these materials, as well as specialized lesson plans and educational tools.
Independently Developing Academic Skills
Homeschoolers must be personally motivated to progress through their studies. While every curriculum offers direction, homeschoolers must be self-starters and take initiative when it comes to completing their assignments.
Building strong study skills such as organization, time management, and concentration are key to successful homeschooling. Independent study may include working on puzzles, reading materials on your own, and taking initiative to find the answers to your own questions. Many homeschoolers also learn by doing – meaning they complete hands-on projects, visit local business and organizations, and participate in community activities.
These activities allow students to develop real-world skills that may not be available in a classroom setting.
Establishing an Effective Study Routine
Developing an effective study routine is essential to any successful homeschooling experience. A good routine should include a clear distinction between school time and free time, as well as set goals and expectations. Routines provide structure and enable homeschoolers to make steady progress throughout the semester.
Additionally, homeschoolers should make sure to plan breaks throughout the day. Breaks give them a chance to reset, review their progress, and move onto the next lesson or task.
Studies show that taking short breaks throughout the day help to improve concentration, boost creativity, and limit boredom.
Finding Virtual Learning Platforms
Homeschoolers have access to a variety of virtual learning platforms. These platforms provide interactive learning experiences, such as online games and videos, that can be used to supplement traditional homeschooling methods. Virtual learning platforms can offer a sense of community and socialization among peers, access to online learning tools, and lessons that are tailored to each individual student’s needs.
Using Technology as an Educational Tool
Technology, when used as an educational tool, can be a great asset for homeschoolers. Technology can help students to connect with mentors and other professionals to learn new skills, gain experience, and explore different interests. Technology can also help homeschoolers to track and monitor their progress, set learning goals, and access educational resources and materials.
Finding Support Networks
Homeschoolers may also need to seek out support networks and mentors in order to supplement their educational experience. Support networks can provide both emotional and academic support throughout the homeschooling journey. Finding mentors and like-minded peers can help to foster meaningful connections, provide socialization opportunities, and help homeschoolers to stay on track and make progress in their studies.
Engaging in Extra-curricular Activities
Pursuing Interests for Self-Directed LearnersFor self-directed learners, pursuing interests outside of the traditional home-school curriculum is an important part of the learning process. Homeschoolers who engage in hobbies and interests that they are passionate about are more likely to be engaged and motivated to keep learning. Students can explore outside interests in the form of books, videos, research projects, or even apprenticeships.
Accessing Alternative Education Programs
Many homeschoolers take advantage of alternative education programs. These programs provide unique and unique educational opportunities, such as dual enrollment in college courses, internships, work-study programs, and apprenticeships. These programs can help homeschoolers to gain skills, experience, and credentials that may help them in their future.
Striking the Right Balance
Homeschooling is a balancing act for both the student and the parent. It is important for homeschoolers to find a balance between schoolwork and play. This balance can come in the form of taking breaks, pursuing interests, and engaging in extra-curricular activities.
Additionally, homeschoolers should also strive to find a balance between freedom and structure. Too much structure can burn out students, while too little can lead to a lack of progress.
Conclusion
Homeschoolers have many options when it comes to learning, however, the best way to learn and succeed is to create an individualized plan. A plan should take into account the goals of the student and the family, as well as any outside support that may be needed.
As long as homeschoolers are motivated and organized, they can create learning plans that are catered to their own needs and help them to reach their full potential.