Ben Recommends
Unschooling To University: Relationships matter most in a world crammed with content
School is one option to get an education; homeschooling is the second, and unschooling is the third.
Many parents are frustrated by the school system, perhaps because of bullying, crowded classrooms, and outdated, dull, online courses. Disengaged learners that have no say in their coerced curriculum tend to act out, tune out, or drop out. Education must change and unschooling is the fastest growing alternative method of learning.
Two decades ago, students registered with their local school based on their house address. Now, with the internet, students are borderless. Learning can occur anywhere, anytime, anyway and from anyone – including self-taught.
Self-directing their education, unschoolers learn through:
- Play
- Projects
- Reading
- Volunteering
- Video games
- Sports
- Mentorship
- Travel
- Life
This book explores the path of 30 unschooled children who self-directed all or part of their education and were accepted by universities, colleges and other postsecondary schools. Most have already graduated.
What children need most are close relationships – parents, teachers, siblings, relatives, coaches, and mentors within a wider community, not just within an institutional school. Educational content is everywhere. Caring relationships are not.
Families that embrace unschooling do not have to choose between a quality education and a relaxed, connected family lifestyle. They can have both.