Keri's Blog
Why is Traditional School Irreplaceable?
Most people we know came from a traditional school, and We tend to assume that others we meet attended traditional schools when we ask the icebreaker question “What school did you attend to?” While attending traditional school is a common way to receive an education, it is important to recognize that alternative options exist. For example, we’ve got homeschooling for special needs children or families that have different religious beliefs from those taught in traditional school. Although homeschooling can be as effective in learning as a traditional school, there are lots of advantages that only traditional schools can provide.
First of all, traditional schools have a built-in structure, which offers children a daily procedure and a system of passing on knowledge that involves students and teachers. The kids learn in a classroom setting, alongside their classmates, and always under the supervision of a teacher who provides support as needed. Young children thrive on routines; hence giving them clear instructions can help them quickly adapt to new environments. In addition, Children require a lot of attention and care, so traditional schools also employ teachers with education degrees and extensive experience working with and teaching children. If you are trying to homeschool your children, you may find it more challenging than you think. Many parents struggle to do both tutoring a child and parenting a child. Also, a traditional school teaches children a certain level of independence by encouraging them to keep track of their own class schedules and purchasing their lunch. Consequently, a traditional school is like a small society for kids that prepares them for the real society they will face growing up.
The second benefit of traditional schools is a social benefit. A school is a place where students of different backgrounds come together to gain knowledge. Children who attend traditional school have more opportunities for social interactions. In school, it’s inevitable that children will interact with each other. Many school activities and classes require students to pair up or form groups. This gives them the confidence to talk to new people outside of school. Students get to learn how to work in groups, how to make friends, and how to cope when things go wrong in an interpersonal relationship as well. Since children get to spend dozens of hours with students of their age each week at traditional school, it gives them a platform to develop their social skills.
Apart from the benefits of traditional school, some people may argue that children may progress faster in a homeschooling setting than in a traditional school. According to ThinkImpact, traditional school students received an average score of 21 out of 36 on the ACT, where homeschooled students received an average of 22.8. Yet most traditional schools offer sports and elective options like art and music, which may not be available to homeschool students. Traditional schools possess more resources for children to learn various knowledge and skills.
While these are just a few pros and cons of traditional schooling and homeschooling, there is no right answer to which is better. Each family can adjust their educational settings for children considering their needs and abilities. But if there is no other reason, I will recommend people sending their children to traditional schools. In that way children get to meet new people, experience social life and to have more options to explore. Although homeschooling can be as good in learning as a traditional school, there are lots of advantages such as human interactions and elective options like art or sports that only traditional schools can provide.
References
Detailed Research and Trends in Education and Business
Sources
What are the Benefits of Public School Over Homeschooling?
Homeschooling vs Traditional Schooling: pros and cons