The high cost of "Free" Homeschooling
I know that each parent can determine what is right for their own child. However, my job is to support independent homeschooling. When I get questions about alternative education programs, I don’t want parents to feel like I’m judging them. On the other hand, I do try to point out alternatives that preserve independence, so that you can ensure your child’s successful education.
Online and alternative education classes can be attractive because they are often free. The big problem is that this type of material is only financially free: there are other costs involved. Online classes with accredited programs are often rigid and inflexible, with strict rules that require certain things. That can limit her ability to teach her child the way she learns best. It is important to recognize that while classrooms progress at a standard rate, children do not learn that way. Children learn in bursts. In the classroom environment (physical or online classrooms), children can become frustrated when class goes too fast or bored when class goes too slow.
If you’re tempted by online science materials, consider the free materials that are available to independent homeschoolers. There are many universities that offer online classes in a variety of subjects. MIT is just one example, with its free online classes called “Open CourseWare.”
You can also find high-quality scientific lectures in the library. Although it is not a laboratory science, the learning is fabulous!
A simple Google search for “online virtual labs” will provide plenty of material for every branch of science, with labs linking to many different books. Some online virtual labs are intended for high schools and others are tied to particular textbooks. There is amazing free stuff that anyone can enjoy!
Recently some clients contacted me about alternative education and accredited programs. Some of them have had their children fail online classes due to illness, and now face a devastating but official GPA. A mother paid for an expensive program and her daughter earned a 1.75 GPA in her first year of high school. Oh! The appeal is easy to see, but the costs can be hidden for up to a year. My advice is to tread carefully and look for alternatives that support your independence as a homeschooler.