Research Insights: How Homeschooling Cultivates Engaged Learners with Dr. Brian Ray, Part 1

"Whether it was easier or harder, whatever, whether children were fussing with us or happy with us as parents, it was the philosophy and the theology and the desire to be together as a family that really drove us." – Dr. Brian Ray

In this enlightening episode of the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast, host Yvette Hampton sits down with Dr. Brian Ray, a leading expert in homeschooling research. Discover the surprising findings of Dr. Ray's extensive study on homeschooling, including the positive academic outcomes and improved engagement in science among homeschool children. Dive deep into the biblical perspective on education and the responsibility of parents as the primary educators. Join us as we explore the benefits of parent-directed home-based education discipleship and debunk misconceptions about homeschooling.

Come back Wednesday and Thursday for the rest of this important conversation.

Watch this full conversation on our YouTube channel.

Dr. Brian Ray is a leading international expert in research on homeschooling and president of the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI). He has published numerous articles and books, is interviewed by major media, serves as an expert witness in court cases, and testifies to legislatures regarding education. He is a former university professor and public and private school classroom teacher. He holds a Ph.D. (science education, Oregon State University), a M.S. (zoology, Ohio University), and a B.S. (biology, University of Puget Sound), and is a church leader. Brian and Betsy have been married 44 years, have eight children who were all home educated, run a small farm, and have 19 grandchildren. Dr. Ray really enjoys wandering with Betsy, his wife, and being out in the forests and mountains and on adventures. See research at www.nheri.org.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does Dr. Brian Ray's research challenge the perception that homeschooling is inferior to traditional schooling?
2. What are some key factors that contribute to the academic success of homeschooled children, according to Dr. Ray's research?
3. How does Dr. Ray address concerns about child abuse and neglect in homeschooling families, and what data does he present to support his arguments?
4. How does Dr. Ray's personal background and experiences influence his perspective on homeschooling?
5. What are some potential drawbacks or challenges of homeschooling that Dr. Ray acknowledges, and how does he address them?
6. How has the acceptance and perception of homeschooling changed over the years, according to Dr. Ray?
7. How does homeschooling impact the overall well-being and mental health of children, as discussed by Dr. Ray?
8. How does Dr. Ray argue that homeschooling can contribute to the improvement of local communities and nations?
9. What are some practical strategies and suggestions for parents to prioritize their children's well-being in the midst of societal and technological challenges, according to Dr. Ray?
10. In your opinion, based on the information presented by Dr. Ray, what are the major advantages and disadvantages of homeschooling compared to traditional schooling?

Recommended Resources: 

Podcast Note-Taking Guide

The Gen2 Survey, by NHERI (National Home Education Research Institute) - This study examines adults who attended church growing up and seeks to understand the key influences which either encouraged or deterred them from believing and practicing the faith of their parents.

Answers for Homeschooling: Top 25 Questions Critics Ask, by Israel Wayne

Education: Does God Have an Opinion?, by Israel Wayne

Israel Wayne, Christian Education: A Manifesto 

Education: The Key to Saving Our Nation – Alex Newman on the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast

Getting Started in Homeschooling - Israel Wayne on the Schoolhouse Rocked Podcast 

 

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BJU Press Homeschool provides complete curriculum for preschool through 12th grade with both traditional textbooks and video courses available. Education from a Christian worldview reshapes how children see the world. BJU Press materials teach Christ's power and lordship through the Big Story of creation.

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