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The Pros and Cons of Designed Curriculum
By Linda Price
Q: Could you explain the advantages
and disadvantages of using a designed curriculum with a
“checklist” (like Abeka) as opposed to a “design
your own curriculum”, “life is education”
approach (like Charlotte Mason)?
A: The designed "checklist" curriculum (like Abeka)
sometimes provides a sense of "security" for a
teacher who is new to homeschooling. Because curriculums
like Abeka are used by Christian schools, the homeschool
teacher sometimes then feels "assured" that everything
that needs to be studied about a subject for the school
year is being taught. If curriuclums like Abeka are used,
the teacher should be careful to use only as many of the
exercises given as are necessary for each student to grasp
each concept being taught.
Sometimes the "checklist" in the designed curriculum
can be used by the homeschool teacher as a scope and sequence
framework for developing a more flexible, varied unit approach.
The more flexible unit approach allows the homeschool teacher
and student to explore the individual student's interests
while using fun, "hands-on" learning materials.
No matter which curriculum is used, the homeschool teacher
needs to remember that a flexible teaching/learning schedule
and "life experience learning" (like learning
math by following a recipe, balancing a check-book, or building
a shop project) are vital to, and the privilege of, the
freedom to homeschool.
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or to: HEN Newsletter, 2610 Morrie Dr., Bellevue, NE 68147.
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who will respond for publishing in a future newsletter.
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the place of legal counsel from a qualified, informed attorney. |
