I chose this discussion the Shift Happens WikiSpace, because I am a parent of grown children who I home schooled until they reached the age to attend high school and I take online college courses myself.
I think online courses for K-12 would be an interesting way to home school. When I taught my children from home there were video courses available and standardized online tests. There were also a few online schools available, however they were very expensive. I imagine since that time and the creation of the Shift Happens wiki that there are many more choices and that these choices are more affordable.
I think that much like online college courses, it would be important to research the quality and success of the institution, before choosing this route to educate your children. For instance, I have attended 3 different online colleges. Some of the courses were great and high quality and some of them use outdated material and confusing lessons. As adults, we can fumble through when necessary. However, children, especially elementary aged, would need much more guidance and direction when running into these types of obstacles.
In general, online schools for K-12 is an awesome concept. I think it makes home schooling an option for parents who would otherwise shy away from such a daunting task. It could also bridge the gap for those parents who would love to home school but do not have the time for lesson plans and direct instruction, because they are working away from the home.
No comments:
Post a Comment