It’s amazing how technology has changed the way we learn these days. It has become so easy to find resources within SECONDS, even for non-reading children. They can easily turn on the mic or say, “Hey Google” and access information that was once hard to find.
While the use of technology continues to rise, more and more families are deciding to educate their children at home. Well, why? Keep reading.
What is Homeschooling?
So, homeschooling is like regular school, but at home (though there are different methods). Instead of sending your kid off to school, you get to be their teacher! This means that you can make the lessons fit your child’s interests and needs, which is awesome. Plus, your child gets to learn in a comfortable and safe environment – their own home! And since you’re in charge, you can adjust the schedule and lessons to work with their learning style and pace. Homeschooling is great, isn’t it?
Read More: 7 Different Homeschooling Methods to Consider
Why Do Families Choose to Homeschool?
There are indeed a lot of positive things about homeschooling itself. But one of the major reasons, as you may already know, why many parents choose to homeschool is because they find the educational systems in most public and private schools to be frustrating. It’s not uncommon to encounter recurring challenges that can make it difficult for students to thrive.
- Bullying often occurs at school and can greatly affect a child’s mental and emotional well-being, making it a major challenge.
- Some parents may believe that traditional schools do not offer enough academic rigor or that their child’s learning style is not compatible with the school’s teaching style.
- Other challenges faced by traditional schools include large classes, limited resources, and a lack of individual attention. These problems can make it tough for some children to get the education they need to succeed.
Although homeschooling may not be for all, it’s great to have an option where we can uphold our own individual family values and live not just as we’re told.
With technology, homeschooling has become even more accessible and has allowed parents to provide high-quality education at home tailored to their child’s specific needs and interests.
How is Technology Changing Homeschooling?
Children today have been born in the digital age. They are known as the Generation Alpha. They have not known a time when technology didn’t exist. Since technology has become an integral part of societies, it also is having a significant impact on our children’s education and homeschooling.
1. More Resources are Available and Accessible
Through the internet, homeschooling parents can obtain a wide range of educational materials in the form of videos, songs, interactive games, podcasts, online textbooks, and materials. These resources can be accessed through any personal device (laptop, tablet, or phone) or be printed easily at home!
2. More Opportunities for Social and Educational Interaction
Virtual classrooms have also changed the way homeschooling is delivered. Through virtual classrooms, our learners can interact with educators in online courses and other homeschooling children from different parts of the world.
These interactions help to create a sense of community and provides children with an opportunity to develop social skills.
3. More Support for Homeschooling Parents
Social media has also become a pool of inspiration for new activities to try with the children, as well as motivational and informational support for parents. Many influencers share their knowledge and help their audience through their content and blogs (such as this, wink).
Homeschooling parents can also use technology to connect with other homeschooling parents and share personal ideas and resources.
Challenges with the Use of Technology in Homeschooling
While technology has helped in many ways to educate our children, it also poses some risks that need to be addressed:
- Cyberbullying, identity theft, and exposure to inappropriate content
- Brainwashing and influence that doesn’t align with your values
- Distraction from their schoolwork
- Over-reliance on screens and a lack of physical activity
Parents need to be vigilant about their children’s use of technology and take steps to protect them, such as monitoring their online activity and establishing rules and limitations for their children’s internet and gadget use.
Informing the child what to do in those scenarios can also be helpful. We recommend the book Good Pictures, Bad Pictures by Kristen A. Jenson as an opener for discussing about p*rnography. They also offer digital safety resources for families and schools.
It’s also important to provide our children the opportunities for critical thinking and problem solving, as well as, exercise and outdoor time as part of our daily homeschooling routine.
By providing fun and engaging alternatives that are off-screen and finding out your children’s other interests, we hope that they will not rely on gadgets as much for learning.
Challenges of Homeschooling in the Age of Technology
Like the use of technology in homeschooling, homeschooling in this digital age also presents some challenges, especially for parents:
One of the which is the need to provide diverse learning experiences that include socialization and hands-on learning. Homeschooling parents can bring their children to public places and to extracurricular classes outside of the home. Bringing them to places (e.g., church, mall, coffee shop, family dinners) where they can observe you interact with others (and practice themselves) can be a simple start.
Another challenge is the responsibility of teaching and developing self-discipline and time management skills in children. Parents who homeschool must be prepared to invest significant time and effort in planning and implementing a curriculum that is tailored to their child’s individual learning style and interests.
Additionally, children must be motivated and disciplined to succeed in a homeschooling environment where there are fewer external pressures and deadlines.
By providing a well-rounded education and fostering a love of learning, homeschooling can be an excellent option for families who are committed to their child’s education and personal growth.
Conclusion
Give these advantages and challenges some serious thought before deciding if homeschooling is the best choice for your family. Keep in mind that homeschooling in this digital age (and as it is) is not an easy option. It’s going to require a lot of time, effort, and dedication from both you and your children.
Overall, with the use of online resources and personalized instruction, children can receive a high-quality education in a safe and comfortable environment. If you’ve already decided, know that you can do this! Technology is not an enemy. When used well, it provides great help!
