redhead - since I started posting here I've worried quite thoroughly about the lack of data to support my position. I assure you that I have searched quite thoroughly for data that reflects socialization (I hate that word and kick myself every time I use it) or at least satisfaction, or happiness, or something to that effect among the homeschooled population. All I've found are a handful of studies, poorly documented, and generally themselves carried out by homeschooling advocates. These colorful charts always brag about how many things homeschoolers are doing outside the home, but realistically the profile of activities precisely matches those of the lonely, self-conscious kids that I've talked with.
Also, I hasten to add that on the topic of anecdotes I am speaking not only for myself but for nearly every homeschooler with whom I have ever spoken regarding this issue, in contrast to the bulk of parents on this discussion forum who eagerly relate all the terrible things that happened to them personally in public school. The bulk quantities of homeschooling literature that I have read all reflect a very similar parental attitude which I feel is something akin to a coverup of the real situation of the affected children. I could be wrong, and in any argument, especially with so admittedly flimsy a platform as I am on, it would be foolish for me to assert otherwise. However, I believe strongly given what I have seen of the homeschooling community that I and the very few others in my position are correct and will eventually be vindicated.
I'm no public school advocate. It's dumbed down, childish, and often a complete waste of time. But even as bad as it is, I argue that it is superior to homeschooling. Moreover, public school can be made to work by choosing hard classes and going outside the bounds of assignments, just as homeschooling can, and without the risk of having a "teacher" who posts on online forums using entirely capital letters. The difference between public school and education at home, I strongly believe, is that in public school it is relatively easy to be relatively well adjusted while homeschoolers find it very difficult to be even slightly well adjusted. It doesn't help that many homeschooling families belong to extremely dogmatic religious groups which place further restrictions upon individuals' thought processes and schedules.
So, if you have solid statistical data regarding "socialization," I would be very interested. I see my current purpose in this place as simply to warn parents as best as I am able given my resources as to just what a travesty this experience can be. And really, don't think that that I am necessarily condemning home education no matter what. I'm sure that given the proper community, parents, geographical situation and general attitude things could work out perfectly. I've just never seen that happen.Statistics: Posted by Against Homeschooling — Sat Mar 24, 2007 10:02 am
]]>