Homeschooling involves teaching a child the necessary subject matter to meet graduation standards at home. There are both advantages and disadvantages of homeschool for high school students. The avoidance of negative influences, setting goals based on a child’s ability, and flexibility represent a few advantages. Added expense, additional responsibility, and lack of social interaction are a few of the negatives related to homeschool for high school students.
One advantage of homeschool for high school students is the avoidance of negative influences. Homeschooling can’t limit all interactions with negative influence, but it can cut down on peer pressure. This can limit the possibility of a high school student getting involved with drinking and drugs, or being the subject of bullying.
Choosing homeschool for high school students allows for goal setting based on an individual’s needs. High school aged students able to keep up with a more rigorous schedule may be able to complete school early. Those that need more focus on specific subject areas, such as math and science, can get the extra help they need.
Flexibility is another advantage of homeschool for high school students. Homeschooled students must adhere to basic study requirements to meet state schooling standards, but some flexibility exists in how information is taught. This can include taking field trips for hands-on learning experiences. Additional help in the form of tutors can also help provide additional instruction.
Among the disadvantages of homeschooling a high school student is the added expense. The costs of books, study supplies, and any independent study help must be considered. In addition, parents who choose to homeschool need to consider the amount of pay they are foregoing by not working, or working non-traditional jobs and hours.
Choosing to homeschool a high school student represents a substantial parental responsibility. The success of the student rests squarely on the parent’s shoulders. Preparing to homeschool a high school student also means understanding college entrance requirements and taking the responsibility for preparing the student academically and socially for a successful future.
Traditional high schools provide plenty of opportunity for involvement in extracurricular activities and social functions. Homeschooled high school students will need to interact with others their own age to develop social skills and make friends. This can be remedied by involving children in sports and other social activities, such as art classes or dance classes.
Homeschooling also requires that parents take other disadvantages into consideration. Without the traditional school support, students will be without scientific labs, gymnasiums, and other traditional school facilities. Parents may have to get creative in developing a plan of action for particular assignments and activities related to a hands-on curriculum.
