Maggie McCarron
Staff Writer
Primary and secondary education are some of the most formative years for a person. This is where students learn how to interact with others, learn basic knowledge of all subjects and become model citizens.
Of course, there are a few different methods of primary and secondary education, two of which are homeschooling and private schooling.
Here at Franciscan University of Steubenville, the topic of homeschooling vs. private schooling is very touchy. Franciscan admits many students from both homeschool and private school secondary programs, and sometimes there are slight indications of this difference.
Homeschooling does not always provide students with adequate social skills.
Many homeschoolers do not have as much social interaction with people outside their families. Yes, homeschoolers do have friends, but private school students spend a minimum of 35 hours a week with fellow students and teachers.
Homeschool students are also not used to changing professors. Having different professors can be a new and stressful experience for previously-homeschooled students. They might not understand how to balance these classes and could become overwhelmed.
This can become a problem in college, especially when students have lecture classes. Homeschool students are not used to listening and taking notes, and this may become a struggle for them in their first few classes. This can also be a problem in the future, when adults who were homeschooled could have trouble focusing during presentations at work.
In true homeschooling (not online school), a parent is responsible for teaching the child all subjects. However, a parent can in no way be an expert in all core subjects primary and secondary students must take. This can result in disproportionate knowledge of certain subjects.
Private school may not be the very best environment, but it is better than a homeschool environment for various reasons.
Attending classes with peers everyday will teach students how to focus when distractions are around them and will offer students the chance to learn how to work in groups with fellow students. Working together is a very crucial skill for all people to have.
Theology is also different in private schools. While families do teach their children the basics of religion, private schools offer a variety of approaches that homeschooling is not able to offer, like teachers who have studied theology, campus ministers, clergy, speakers and open discussions with peers.
Private schools also offer a variety of classes to keep students in a well-rounded schedule. Generally, students take STEM, art and physical education classes with their fellow students.
Private school students have more experience with authority and listening to rules. They must obey rules set by their schools and face punishments that are not solely from their parents. This experience will be beneficial to them as adults, especially in the workplace.
Attending a private school offers a more structured day. Many times, students struggle with incorporating a schedule into their own days. At a private school, the schedule is already provided, and it gives students a glimpse of how to structure their days in the future.
Overall, private school has more positive opportunities for all students and will better prepare them for college life and careers.