The idea that children learn best when given freedom in choosing their curriculum and control over how they learn is growing among progressive home educators. Instead of forcing their children to slog through what amounts to the same five courses year in and year out, they are able to pursue alternative learning opportunities as their curiosity leads them.

Unschooling is a unique form of home education that is arguably older than home education itself. Due to technological advances like internet browsing, podcasting, and cyberschooling, this radical learning system is being embraced by progressive home educators all over the country. Unschooling is gaining popularity across demographics. It’s embraced by upper and lower classes, a variety of races, and a surprising range of religious beliefs.

Not all educators are sold on the idea. Some feel that students need more structure to motivate them to learn. Many teachers believe that sometimes parents just have to pull in the reigns and force their children to study things that they don’t necessarily want to study. Unschooling parents respond by claiming that students who are able to specialize in specific areas of interest are not only happier students, but will eventually have more to offer society. They believe that the public school system is structured so that all graduates come out looking, talking, thinking, feeling, and acting the same. Not so with unschooling home education. These parents often encourage their children to go against the grain, whatever that grain may be.

Home educators are encouraged to read more about unschooling at the Ashland City Times.



Thanks to Mimi Rothschild for contributing this article to our Homeschooling blog:

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