Before we explain the different types of homeschooling methods in detail, it is critical to note that one of the most important decisions that parents must make pertains to their child’s education. With the enormous developments in education technology in the last few years, this decision has become even more overwhelming.
If you are reading this, you have probably considered homeschooling. Keep reading to know more about the different types of homeschooling methods. Find out which homeschooling method fits your child.
The vast world of different homeschooling methods needs close thinking, right from the decision-making process to enrollment.
Traditional homeschooling
The traditional form of homeschooling is the most common kind of homeschooling. People generally refer to conventional homeschooling when they discuss homeschooling methods. It functions on a steady daily schedule and includes lecture-based classes similar to public or private school instruction. It involves using textbooks and online lessons and aligns with the local school district’s curriculum, such as using tests and quizzes for evaluation.
While it is one of the most popular homeschooling methods for most families, it has some drawbacks. Families who adopt this approach make an expensive purchase of a year’s curriculum. This method also requires much work from the parent or instructor, who must organise and ensure the child is adhering to the schedule and learning effectively. The parent tends to feel overwhelmed, eventually leading to burnout. On the contrary, traditional homeschooling helps new children by offering structure.
Roadschooling
Of all the prevalent homeschooling methods, roadschooling is becoming increasingly popular with each passing year. The basic premise of roadschooling is to take education on the road. Still, it does not mean carrying textbooks and computers in the car. Roadschooling is about many road trips where children can see, smell, and feel what parents teach. For example, parents set up road trips to visit instead of reading or lecturing about sanctuaries and national parks. Children can then first-hand experience the sites and ask any questions they might have to the people working there.
Children can learn about the world by experiencing it up close rather than through a textbook or screen. However, roadschooling is not an appropriate alternative if parents or guardians prefer schedules and are concerned about children establishing friendships with other kids. Roadschoolers need to declare official residence at a particular location and follow its local homeschooling laws.
Unschooling
Unschooling is still unconventional among all the homeschooling methods where children take control of their education. Interests and desires drive learning that takes place organically through discovery.
Parents let go of control over their child’s education. It employs some of the core characteristics of homeschooling: the child’s learning style, personality, and interests. Unschooling requires discipline from children and parents while allowing children to learn what they want and explore their interests.
Worldschooling
Worldschooling is extreme roadschooling encouraging children to see as much of the world as possible. It is far from other traditional homeschooling methods. Some families may move to a particular country and enrol their child in a local school for some time where they can immerse themselves in a new culture. It involves registering children in local schools in different countries for short periods rather than teaching from home.
Montessori homeschooling
The Montessori approach, named after an Italian doctor and educator, Maria Montessori, places value on the individuality of each child with unique interests and curiosities. It seeks to self-regulate, requiring each child to learn the appropriate way to act depending on the environment and situation.
Montessori learning includes mixed-age classrooms designed to support child development, teachers who facilitate hands-on learning, and individual and collaborative activities and learning.
Hybrid homeschooling
In a hybrid homeschooling model, children divide their time between homeschool and traditional schooling. It includes a combination of some days at home and others at school. The hybrid model allows parents to work part-time while their children are with other students. It combines the benefits of parent-driven instruction with the advantages of a traditional schooling environment.
At Birla Brainiacs, we aim to educate children and support young talent. We believe in changing with time and technology, and our learning methods reflect our flexible attitude. Birla Brainiacs is one of the leading online edtech platforms that has transformed the face of different homeschooling methods in India. Enroll with us to give your child the greatest possible educational experience.