The Difference Between Homeschooling and Online School
Online schooling and homeschooling are often confused as the same thing. While both are technically done at home, virtual schooling is very different from traditional homeschooling for a variety of reasons. At Oregon Charter Academy, our online school learning program incorporates critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative elements to provide a well-rounded and impressive education for grades K-12. Here, we explain the biggest differences between homeschooling and online schooling through our public charter school.
Method of Instruction
Perhaps the biggest difference when it comes to homeschooling and online school learning is the method of instruction. With homeschooling, it’s typically the parents who are in charge of the child’s curriculum, the materials they use, scheduling, and teaching. With virtual schooling, students have teachers, just as they would in a traditional school setting. The only difference is simply that the teaching is done over the internet.
Curriculum Layout
The way a curriculum is designed varies between homeschooling and online school. With homeschooling, the parent or guardian is typically in charge of what their child will study and how much time will be applied to specific coursework. Other content, like textbooks, is also provided by the parent.
Meanwhile, a virtual school’s curriculum is set up by the school. Oregon Charter Academy’s curriculum is completely aligned with the state of Oregon’s academic standards, and physical coursework material is also provided to go along with the online curriculum. Our education focuses on developing what we call the Four Cs, which include:
Communication
Collaboration
Creativity
Critical thinking
Opportunities to Socialize
Both homeschooling and virtual learning offer opportunities to socialize with other students. With homeschooling, this is often organized by the individual parents instead of an organization. Virtual schooling typically has field trips and other events molded into the curriculum. For instance, Oregon Charter Academy offers various field trips, like exploring a cranberry bog, hiking through Susan Creek Falls, and more.
Testing Requirements
Standardized testing requirements vary from state to state when it comes to homeschooling. In Oregon, homeschoolers can opt out of this testing. With online schooling, however, students are prepped and trained for standardized testing, including the SATs. In fact, Oregon Charter Academy offers coursework to successfully prep students for such testing.
Special Education Opportunities
If students are struggling with coursework, other issues, or disabilities, our virtual schooling has trained educators and support professionals on staff to help. This provides a safe space for students to learn at their own pace with someone by their side. Homeschooling, in most cases, often doesn’t offer direct aid for student disabilities. Typically, this form of aid would be given by the parent, who may not be well-versed in the most effective teaching methods for their child.
Picking the Best Path for Your Child
Both homeschooling and virtual schooling have many differences in how curriculum, activities, and testing are presented. Discussing what’s best with your child will help direct you toward the right decision. For over 15 years, Oregon Charter Academy in Mill City, Oregon, has equipped students with the tools needed for success in college and beyond. To learn more about the differences between homeschooling and our online school learning program, contact us today.