To begin, a couple quotes may be helpful, "While human nature largely determines how we hear the notes, its is nurture that lets us hear the music." Jonah Lehrer. Music enters via the ears which is nature, but recognizing the sound as music and not as noise, is the result of nurture. Motivation in learning comes from pursuit. "Find out what it is that touches you most deeply. Pursue it, learn about it, explore it, expand on it. Live with it and nurture it." Leonard Nimoy
ASSESSING NATURE AND
REWARDING NURTURE
Teachers often begin with assessments to know what a student's learning needs are based on the curriculum/s they are using; particularly in public school but also by private schools and by home schoolers.
Today, nondirective teaching or NDT is a good example of effective motivational learning and is popular in home settings. It can be an appropriate way to support a child's performance in public school but some children need more supervision than others to master the necessary disciplines. Child-centered learning in a Christian family emphasizes supportive environments where students can take charge of their learning. They use their own learning styles and intuitive approaches to gain knowledge and solve problems. Parents can follow progress using question and answer, active listening, coaching, rewarding effort, and celebrating achievements. Support needs vary with grade level and the maturity of the child.
The following methodologies and resources have been utilized with homeschoolers: Audiobooks and Audio Resources, Visual Aids such as Time Lines, Maps, and Computer Software Programs, Engagement with High Interest Materials, Multisensory Learning, Interactive Learning with role play of historical events and concepts involved, Narrative Stories of People, Events, and Cultures with Critical Thinking and Analysis, Collaborative Learning with Peer Support and Diverse Perspectives, Assistive Technology and Integration of Technology, Structured Note-Taking, Focused Study Techniques, Tutoring, and Field Trips.
Strengths include opportunity to make choices, express feelings, ask questions, explore concepts deeply, and freedom to discuss issues, experiences, and opinions without undue concern for right or wrong answers or judgments.
Weaknesses may include lack of structure, time-consuming processes, difficulty covering required knowledge for educational testing, awkwardness for directive teachers, unequal learning experiences, and potential for overemphasis on feelings, and difficulty balancing emotional and academic achievement.
Parents who homeschool using this approach will see great benefit from using both assessment tools and non directive approaches to balance nature with nurture. Keeping a journal on each child's activity will help with evaluations, recognition of changes that need to be made, and rewards for efforts and progress.
responsive households
If you think of family as parents being stewards of their lives and the children they are given; earthly parents begin our care physically. When we get sick they take us to a doctor. They do well to provide for us physically, but need Jesus to help care for their children's spiritual needs. They miss this care if their parents or others don't teach them about Jesus. He loves children and wants them to have life; a life that makes them fit for heaven, a life guided by love, renewed minds, and willing spirits. "Jesus replied, Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching, My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them" (John 14:23).
becoming
skillful workers
Children are encouraged to follow Jesus' example in submitting to training and necessary preparation for a period of years. They are encouraged not to abbreviate this time. God honors the development of biblical knowledge, trades, and skills. Much is learned in the sharing of daily household chores and communications. All of these reflect love and please their heavenly Father just as Jesus did in honoring his earthly parents. Honest work and stewarding one's talents and gifts helps children with identifying their abilities and spiritual gifts. Skills learned in godly homes can lead to fruitful service in the church and community. Such knowledge may lead them to vocational and career choices. These skills also come in handy to pay the costs of trainings, during times when adult workplace income is lean, when jobs are lost, or when relocation becomes necessary.
