Briefly, as the name implies, proponents of unschooling don't believe in providing any structure or incentives whatsoever for learners.

I think we could safely cut way down on the amount of structure in modern education, probably, in much homeschooling as well. Eliminate it, entirely?

If the home environment were unusually rich--both parents acclaimed scientists with interests in the arts, or serious classical musicians who also loved travel, and both mother and father had unusually deep, loving bonds with Johnny or Mary, then maybe we could do away with all structure and all expectations. The child would grow up "tagging along" and asking many questions, as children are wont to do, and everything would turn out fine.

In circumstances short of that unusual home life, Johnny or Mary may need a little boost, in the form of structured drills for reading and arithmetic, to reach adulthood with basic competencies.
9:03:46 AM    comment []