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The Problem with Testing

The Problem with Testing

by | May 1, 2020 | self-directed learning

Before Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker announced that public schools will be closed for the remainder of this academic year, he stated that he wanted to re-open public schools in May to administer standardized tests that could determine just how much children...
Learning About Online Learning

Learning About Online Learning

by | Apr 8, 2020 | self-directed learning

North Star is about two weeks into its online efforts. The main lesson: There is a very important reason that North Star is a community center. Our online efforts to support each other have some highlights, but really, we miss being together. For all that we use...
Everyone is Not Homeschooling

Everyone is Not Homeschooling

by | Mar 23, 2020 | self-directed learning

No, everyone is not homeschooling now! If an apartment building burns down and the residents have to temporarily live in tents, we don’t say, “Everyone’s camping now!” like it’s some fun, novel activity. The word “homeschooling” is already problematic enough without...
Are We Cool Now?

Are We Cool Now?

by | Feb 1, 2020 | self-directed learning

Full disclosure: before this week, I had never heard of Billie Eilish.  In case you missed it, Billie Eilish swept the four major Grammy Awards last week.  She is 18 years old, and an unabashed, proud homeschooler. In a video interview with Pitchfork Magazine, she...
Where is Everybody?

Where is Everybody?

by | Jan 15, 2020 | self-directed learning

In my previous blog, I celebrated the news that many adults are working to make self-directed learning an option in their communities.  From democratic schools to Agile Learning Centers to our network of Liberated Learners, I am enthused for the dramatic increase in...