Considering ideas different methods (questions from 100 Top Picks, chapter 2)

*How do you think learning should happen?
I would like to incorporate good literature instead of some textbooks, as well as hands on learning. Program/curriculum needs to be flexible to meet individual needs and desires.

*How do you want to teach or "run your school"?
1. Do you want to try to teach most of all of your children together, at least for some subjects?
Absolutely! To make the most of my time I would like to at least teach history, literature, science, and foreign languages together.
2. How much of the time do you want (or are you able ) to work directly with your children?
All morning most likely, with some time in the afternoon maybe.
3. How much of the time do you expect your children to work independently?
Currently, none to very, very little. Each year more and more so that by highschool the majority of their work may be independent.
4. Do you want to use real books (biographies, historical novels, books written about particular science topics, etc.) as part of your curriculum?
YES!
5. Do you want to include field trips? What type of field trips?
Yes! Visiting places that relate to what we are learning about and educational family vacations (such as learning USA geography by visiting all lower 48 states. Visiting historical and scientific locations).
6. Do you like to "make up" curriculum as you go, adapting to the needs and interests of your children, or do you prefer things well planned out in advance?
Some of each. A suggested guideline might be nice with flexibility to add and change what I wish.
7. Do you need a set schedule to get things done, or would you prefer more flexibility?
A fairly set schedule to provide consistency, but flexibility to deal with life's surprises.
8. Do you prefer a curriculum that is thoroughly laid out with lesson plans that tell you what to do when or do you prefer just an outline to follow?
A general outline would work well as I will probably change and adapt some as we go.
9. Any additional thoughts about how you want to operate?
I would like to "do school" year-round. I'd also like to take advantage of "outside" classes for some subjects and sports.

OK, so now how does this fit with the different educational methods? Well, Cathy Duffy, in her book, has a chart that helps you evaluate how your philosophy compares to the different methods. Here are my scores:
Traditional - 3 points =27%
Charlotte Mason - 11.5 points = 74%
Classical - 11 points = 75%
Unit Study - 12.5 point = 73%
Unschooling - 10 points = 59%
Independent Study - 5 points = 42%
Eclectic - 11 points = 61%
Umbrella Program - 4 points = 36%
(for explanations of methods please see Cathy Duffy's book, 100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum.)

As you can see Charlotte Mason, Classical, and Unit Study basically tied for me. I like the literature based approach and narration of Charlotte Mason. Of the Classical method, I like the emphasis on critical thinking, communication skills, and the three stages of learning (the Trivium). And I would love to incorporate Unit Studies in teaching history, literature, and science for all three of our children.

Based on all this I have quite a list of curriculum that Cathy reviewed in her book, that I would like to explore further.

Visit www.cathyduffyreviews.com for curriculum reviews in addition to her book.