by Lisa Van Dam

Created on: December 31, 2009   Last Updated: January 01, 2010

There are many different types of homeschooling methods used today. Each parent must decide which method or methods are best for their child. But, that can be a very difficult decision, when you don't know the difference. Once a parent understands the different homeschooling methods, they can make the decision for what will best suit their child.

Structured learning which is the most like a traditional school environment. Student's work out of texts at specified times. This is the first type that most parents implement.

 Unschooling is the opposite of structured learning. This form of schooling does not use lesson plans or textbooks. Unschooling is considered “child centered learning”, meaning they focus the learning around what the child is interested in. Unschoolers usually believe that each child's learning is different, and that learning occurs all of the time. Parents work individually with their children based on the child's interests.

 Eclectic learning is a mix of both, structured learning and Unschooling. Parents using this learning style do not feel bound to any particular style. They will often use texts for subjects such as Language Arts, Math, and Reading while other subjects may be more unstructured. The curriculum is generally a mix and match of what works best for the individual child. This is rapidly becoming more popular than any other type of homeschooling.

Virtual on-line homeschooling is where a child is enrolled in school, but participates on-line. Parents are provided with all the curriculum and access to a teacher. This method can sometimes be done for free via a charter or on-line public school, depending on your area.

Unit Studies are when a family uses one theme or literary text to incorporate most school subjects. Often times parents will use this method in combination with other methods. Unit studies can be done on just about anything from the Renaissance to the Milky Way Galaxy. Parents either purchase these or make their own. You can find various activities related your topic to fill as many school subjects as you wish.

Charlotte Mason method is using living books as texts. These parents use narration, copy work, dictation, and recitation as learning methods. This can encompass all subjects, or be used in combination with another method.

For learning more on the different types of homeschooling, here is a good resource: http://www.thehomeschoolmom.com/newtohomeschooling/

Disclaimer: This article is not all encompassing. It was written to cover the most widely used home school types

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