Abstract
One of the significant trends in modern education is home school. It can already be met in many countries of the world. It allows parents to control the learning process of children on their own. In addition, the children themselves get a high level of independence and freedom. As a result, in most cases, children undergoing homeschooling are growing more confident and successful. Many studies confirm this fact since children can follow their schedule themselves and focus on subjects of interest to them. They also gain more opportunities for socialization by joining communities appropriate to their interests and finding friends there. Thus, homeschooling is a positive trend in the modern educational system. It will become more popular over the years, so educational institutions need to take measures to adapt to this system.
Introduction
In recent years, educational systems around the world have undergone significant changes. One of the growing trends is homeschooling. Researchers state that “homeschooling has become a growing education phenomenon across the globe” (Jamaludin et al., 2015, p. 111). In my opinion, this approach to education has a positive effect on students. It allows them to develop independence and creativity and gives time to other essential activities. It also offers children opportunities for socialization, not only among classmates but also among different groups of people with common interests. The purpose of this paper is to study the literature on home school and discuss the positive and negative aspects of this phenomenon.
Most researchers agree that home education has a beneficial effect on children. One of the most notable positive outcomes is high performance. According to numerous studies, children who study at home get higher grades than public schools students (Ray, 2017a). It is due to their parent’s attention and complete focus on children. Additionally, children study in a more comfortable mode, which makes their schedules more flexible and convenient. Thanks to this, they can devote time to activities that interest them, contributing to diversified development. They are also not subjected to excessive intellectual and physical stress, as they live in a less oppressive atmosphere.
Another positive effect of home education is related to functioning in society. Many people are concerned about the problems of socializing children in homeschooling; however, according to studies, this problem actually does not exist (Ray, 2017a). First, in homeschooling, children are not exposed to the harmful effects of bullying that are common in regular schools. Second, they can pay more attention to self-knowledge and self-development. Third, they can socialize in various creative, sports, and other associations, communicating with people who share their interests. All this has a beneficial effect on socialization, which is another advantage of homeschooling.
Undoubtedly, there are certain disadvantages to this process. For example, according to studies, homeschooling can adversely affect the developmental level of young children (Ray, 2017b). This applies to the features of their socialization and intellectual qualities. However, with age, these features can be leveled, so they do not pose a serious danger to those who are studying at home. Even if some difficulties arise in the learning process, children can focus on their strengths and develop in a direction they like.
Some studies also indicate the underdeveloped social skills of children who are studying at home. Indeed, sometimes this problem can occur, especially if the children are introverted (Ray, 2017b). However, this difference from children studying in public schools can also be smoothed over the years, so it cannot be considered as a severe problem. Growing up, people participate in social events more actively and with interest, which leads to their socialization.
Thus, most studies indicate a positive effect of home education on student development. This gives children ample opportunities for diversified development: intellectual, creative, social, and other types. They grow mentally healthier because they are not bullied and have more opportunities to listen to themselves. In addition, they can build social ties based on their interests from childhood. Consequently, the trend towards home education will only grow over the years, which will lead people to a change in the educational system.
References
Jamaludin, K. A., Alias, N., & DeWitt, D. (2015). Research and trends in the studies of homeschooling practices: A review on selected Journals. The Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology, 14(3), 111-119.
Ray, B. (2017a). A review of research on homeschooling and what might educators learn? Pro-Posições, 28(2), 85-103.
Ray, B. (2017b). A systematic review of the empirical research on selected aspects of homeschooling as a school choice. Journal of School Choice, 11(4), 604-621.