Homeschooling: Opinions Wanted

[SOLDIER #819]

I've been homeschooled (though self-study would be a better word in my case) through half of middle school and all of high school. It's...not that great by itself. The whole thing about becoming more self-reliant, etc. doesn't really fit with my scenario. I have always had horrible study habits, and being homeschooled does not change that. Whether it's public, private, or home, you need to have your study habits instilled in you from the beginning or work hard at making your own.

The biggest problem with homeschooling is the popular notion that you lack a varied social environment. I agree with this completely. Again, like with studying, unless your parents provide you with a framework or you go out and do things yourself, you're going to be isolated. There are many types of homeschool, of course, but I was part of the one where you don't have a group (possibly of "like-minded individuals"). So if it weren't for an outside activity or two, I would have isolated myself completely. This can be a rather big problem when you enter college or the workforce. I don't really believe in ethical and social standards, but you have to be able to coexist with people around you. That can be quite tough if you have a cloak over your cage.

I can't say much about religious homeschool groups...I suppose, depending on what's being taught the community people live in, things could turn out well. But again, if you're not taught how to deal with the varying world views you will assuredly come across it can take its toll. I would probably say the same for any sort of place that polarizes a particular aspect of culture, whether it be religion, gender, etc.

However, I can't really say homeschool is all that bad. At some points it's probably even necessary. A lot of children require special education that public schools (and even private) cannot or simply do not have the patience to provide. If you have a learning disability, regardless of whether or not it stems from something greater, it can be very tough. Children in special education aren't always treated well, amongst their peers or by the teachers themselves. Many of those students are just normal people with deficiencies in various areas. If the student can perceive that they are "the odd one out" (and in most cases they can) it can be a very terrible experience. At times like this a parent should take the steps necessary to protect his or her child. Most schools certainly will not.

This is one of those many decisions that need to be made on a case-by-case basis though. Homeschool is not a great alternative, but it isn't terrible either. It's just an option. If the parents can work hard to make the experience enjoyable both academically and socially, then you may just have a winner. However, many parents don't have the time to do this sort of thing, which is where things begin to fall through the cracks. It would take a certain kind of person to handle it and come out of it well.