Whether you're considering homeschooling or using an online school, both alternative forms of schooling require parents to be more involved. However, many parents find that the freedoms and flexibility they provide their student are well worth the effort, time, and money. To help you choose the best educational choice for your student's learning needs, here's a quick parent's guide of the major differences between online schools and homeschools:
Homeschools
• Independent of any school (public or private), typically with the parent(s) assuming all teaching responsibilities, such as instruction and grading
• Usually features the student learning in an at-home setting, following a parent-made class schedule
• Allows the parent(s) the freedom to pick the curriculum they wish, which may include online lessons
• Requires the parent(s) to follow the laws of homeschooling in their U.S. state
• Can include group learning through local homeschool cooperatives and families
• No accreditation option is available, except through enrolling the student in a school
Online Schools
• Virtual or cyber schools (public or private) with teacher responsibilities assumed by online teachers, on-site teachers, and/or parents
• Usually features the student learning in an at-home setting (or occasionally on-site school setting), following a school-made class schedule
• Requires the enrolled student to use the curriculum of the online school
• Requires the parent(s) to register the student with the school and adhere to school policies
• Can include off-computer learning through regional school groups, field trips, and parent-facilitated activities
• May include an accreditation option, depending on school qualifications