| Abstract [eng] |
After legalisation of homeschooling in Lithuania in 2020, this form of education has become increasingly popular: during of first year of homeschooling being legal 64 children in Lithuania were homeschooled (Oficialiosios statistikos portalas, 2023), while during academic year of 2024-2025 this number has increased to 427 (Oficialiosios statistikos portalas, 2025). However, homeschooling as a phenomenon has not yet been well researched in Lithuanian context. The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate and understand experiences of homeschooling mothers in Lithuania. 7 semi-structures virtual interviews were conducted with participants, all of whom had at least one year of homeschooling experience and were primary educators of their children. The study showed that families’ decision to homeschool their children was well-thought-out and driven by values, children’s needs and/or perceived flaws in the education system. Some participants chose homeschooling during Covid-19 lockdown, as an alternative to distance learning organized by schools. All participants expressed their satisfaction with homeschooling and noted its benefits to children and family, even in those instances where families decided not to continue homeschooling. Results suggest that homeschooling is especially suitable for sensitive children, who require more calmer environments and individualized learning. The study participants stated that they appreciated the opportunity to spend more time with their children, as well as flexibility and freedom that homeschooling provides. Some challenges pertaining to homeschooling were also highlighted: managing professional career while homeschooling, extra time spent on planning and conducting educational and social activities, negative stereotypes surrounding homeschooling community in society and a general lack of support from the government. This study reflects existing institutional deficiencies regarding implementation of homeschooling and supporting such families in Lithuania. |
