Finding a homeschool method that fits your family will focus your homeschool and improve the educational experience. I spent a few years exploring methods before deciding on the one that suited my family the best. Since that moment, my children and I have benefited in numerous ways. I encourage you to research the methods for yourself. A lack of vision and focus, as with any endeavor will result in failure and frustration. However, choosing a method should not be frustrating; it should be a natural fit into your family’s lifestyle. The method is simply framework for how your homeschool is conducted. Here is a brief overview of some methods to consider.
Classical Education Method
This approach uses the trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric) as its main focus. A classical student will receive formal training in Latin, Logic, Greek and Western Literature. The Socratic Method is instilled in the student to develop a critical thinker. The goal is to train the student to think for himself and become a future leader. Think of the student/teacher relationship of Aristotle and Alexander the Great as an example of this method. A classical student will study mathematics and history in depth.
Example curriculum: The Well Trained Mind, Tapestry of Grace, The Covenant House
Charlotte Mason Method
CM is a literature based method which also focuses on habit training. The student is trained in all areas from education to social graces through habits. This instills positive habits as natural; consider the CM motto, “I Am, I Can, I Ought”. Students are encouraged to perform at their best in all subjects competing only with themselves. Charlotte Mason students have short classes with focus on excellent execution of material. Charlotte Mason educators are well known for nature study, narration, Copywork, living books, study of fine arts, and the lack of textbooks. The goal is to instill a love of learning and a curiosity about life.
Example curriculum: Simply Charlotte Mason, Ambleside Online
Montessori Method
Developed by Dr. Maria Montessorri, this method is student-driven yet tempered by a structured environment. The Montessorri method is well known for use with young children in preschool and early elementary schools due to the focus on sensory and motor training. The student is given the freedom to explore his environment at his own pace and level of interest. This is a hands on method whereby the parent or teacher is becomes more of an encourager or guide through the educational experience.
Example curriculum: New Child Montessorri (found online)
Unschooling Method
Perhaps the most controversial method, unschooling is completely student directed. A student is able to learn at his own pace and choose his own interests. Lessons are learned through hobbies, play, interests, and life experience. Unschoolers do not use grades or labels to identify students. The use of textbooks, classes, unit studies or tests is rarely, if ever, used. The focus is on imagination, creative thought, critical thinking, nature, art and music. The child’s entire environment is his classroom as there is not a designated “class time”, classroom or curriculum. Parents adopt the philosophy that children learn out of a sense of curiosity and use the world around them as their classroom. This method is purposeful and should not be confused with neglect, laziness, or lacking in education.
Example curriculum: Formal curriculum is not used for this method.
Eclectic Method
This method is developed over time through experience as a homeschooler. This homeschooler has determined the nature of how each of her children learns and is confident in her knowledge of curriculum and education. Simply put, the homeschooler picks and chooses curriculum and aspects of methods that best fit her family. Please do not misunderstand; one does not develop into an eclectic homeschooler because of her level of ability, confidence and experience. One does not aspire to one day be an eclectic homeschooler. You can be a mature homeschooler with years of experience and remain faithful to a single method or a mix of two methods. However, becoming eclectic is something that requires time and experience by someone who is naturally driven to tailor make her curriculum and homeschool.
Example curriculum: Varies based on teacher’s assessment of her students.
Traditional Method
This approach is the closest to what you find in traditional school classrooms. This method uses textbooks, grade levels, tests, reviews, drills and memorization. Those who incorporate this method provide the student with a full school day filled with reading and writing. The goal is to prepare the student for graduation by fulfilling preset requirements. Students are provided a school setting in a home environment. This method is primarily teacher driven.
Example curriculum: Abeka, Bob Jones, Calvert, Ablaze
Related Links:
What kind of homeschooler are you?
What do Children Need More: Structure of Freedom?
So What Exactly is Relaxed Homeschooling?