Homeschooling and distance learning has become much more normal. Parents worldwide have turned to online education and homeschooling as a means to keep their families safe from Covid. As a result, the distance learning door has been opened and will never again be closed. Education has been forever changed, and now, learning from a computer is a primary source through which students receive information and guided education. “Homeschooling” and “Distance Learning” these words are not uncommon in our vocabulary since 2020. But what is the difference? And is one better than the other?
Homeschool vs. Distance Learning
| Distance Learning | Homeschooling |
|---|---|
| School can be publicly or privately funded. | By definition, homeschooling is the education of a child at home by his/her parents. |
| Has highly qualified teachers with state licensure and advanced degrees. | Homeschooling allows parents to choose from a variety of curriculum. |
| Remote learning allows children to learn anytime and anywhere. | Parent freedom to create their own curriculum. |
| Students still have access to licensed teachers and online classes. | More freedom with out-of-the-classroom learning (i.e., field trips). |
| The schedule is more structured. | Parents have more of an active role in their child's learning process. |
| The curriculum is designed according to the requirements of the state in which the student lives. | Students do not have to take state standardized assessments. |
| Usually are labeled as a charter or private school. | Homeschool students can learn more at their own pace. |
| Students still must participate in state standardized assessments. | Parents must keep track of student learning records. |
Which One Is Better?
When it comes to which method in the delivery of instruction is better, it depends entirely on what will work best for your family. Distance learning and online schools have many characteristics that would appeal to those wanting the structure of a public school setting but the ability to be anywhere doing the work. Many school districts offer distance learning through the public school setting that runs in a normal school year.
Homeschooling is a great option for self-motivated students with a parent who wants the flexibility of curriculum and schedule. Families can determine how many hours a day children work on curriculum, which allows for flexibility. Homeschool kids don’t have to be sitting in a classroom with a single teacher all day or moving to the sound of a bell.
Now, what about traditional public schools? Public schools are supported by taxpayer money, and many now provide both in-class and virtual options. In the standard setting, a child may have one teacher or move from class to class throughout the day. Kids attending a public school do not have the flexibility of a homeschool class but rather a structured, full-time schedule. Some kids flourish with a more strict schedule in this setting.
Final Thoughts
As mentioned, choose the best option for you and your family. Children learn in many different ways and now have the opportunity to learn in many different environments. This is truly the first time in educational history that children and families have had such a myriad of choices in which to learn.
