I don’t believe I have ever met two people who were exactly alike. People may be similar in many ways, but not identical. If everyone is different, does it make sense that you educate everyone the same way?
It is interesting that books are written about different kinds of intelligence. Do you remember when you were in school that some students were very good at spelling, or writing, or math; while others were good artists, musicians or played sports well? We each have some special talents and some areas that we find more difficult. That is part of who we are as individuals.
We know that students have different learning styles, personality types, maturity levels, and experiences and yet typical schools do not tend to work with students as individuals. As parents and educators we know our kids are unique and one of a kind. We know that the one size fits all approach of most schools fail to recognize the uniqueness of each student.
Home-schooled students have the potential advantage of individualized programs that focus on student interests, academic levels and career interests, while supporting the basic educational foundations necessary to succeed in a wide range of post school options. I believe we need to continue to encourage schools to follow the practices of those parents and teachers who recognize their students to be unique and tailor their instruction to bring out the best in their students.
Bob Ginther
IEM Education Consultant
