I came across this article in NAEYC's journal "Young Children" and found it interesting. It was written out of a classroom experience, but I love the idea of subject matter studied being born out of children's interests and then facilitated by the adults. I found the article really interesting and was wondering if anyone wanted to join me in trying to focus on an interest your child demonstrates and using inquiry-based learning to facilitate a unit study, project, etc.
http://journal.naeyc.org/btj/200903/...u_Expanded.pdf (It's a PDF, just so you know)
ETA: I realize this might seem like common sense and what a lot of us do naturally, but I know for me it always helps to have a reminder to be intentional about it.
Quote:
| Inquiry-based learning is a dynamic process. "[It] is an approach to learning that involves a process of exploring the natural or material world, that leads to asking questions and making discoveries in the search for new understandings" (National Science Foundation 2001). Children’s inquiry is essential in constructivism, multiple intelligences theory, and the Reggio Emilia approach, as well as in cooperative and collaborative learning experiences. |
ETA: I realize this might seem like common sense and what a lot of us do naturally, but I know for me it always helps to have a reminder to be intentional about it.
This is what the homeschooling lifestyle is all about
I taught for 9 years before I had children and I find I can't help comparing my experience in the classroom to my experience as a homeschool mom.
That's probably a whole other thread. I do agree with what you're saying, that there are more opportunities for an organic learning/teaching experience at home.
