Thomas Jefferson Education approach

by Marianne

I have just read, "A Thomas Jefferson Education" by Oliver Van DeMille and I have been intrigued by this Classics Based Education.

I am wondering if others have also read this book and how you might apply it in your home.

Do you see this as another homeschooling approach or would you think it fits under what is termed, "Delight Directed" but with it's own focus on Classics and Mentors?

I certainly love the book lists and the emphasis on the classics as well as the emphasis being on the child's education - not on the parents: "Inspire, not Require."

It is a completely individualized approach and it has a vision of building leaders, statesman and entrepreuners and I would love to add more information on this in the future. I'd love your input on the Thomas Jefferson Approach.

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natural laws of learning
by: educatingmommy

I enjoyed your review of TJEd (Thomas Jefferson Education) and also your website.

I love TJEd because it really can incorporate almost any curriculum that fits your family's needs, and simply reveals for us the natural laws that govern learning. Not every method works within these natural laws - TJEd basically teaches us how to work within those natural laws for the best outcome - lifelong learners and leaders.

It does place a large responsibility on both the teacher to inspire and the student scholar to self educate. These are really our responsibilities whether we rise to the challenge or not.

I love that it has inspired me to take ownership in my own education as an adult, and to discover what lights the fire of interest in my children and really know them and mentor them. I love that it helps their natural genius to unfold - naturally! Children learn so much within an environment that nurtures learning.

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Looks good, sounds great.....
by: Kerry

After my first read I'd have to say it sounds great. Whether I could implement it......I'm not sure. I hit a stumbling block with the suggestion of the parent having to demonstrate the learning model. While the idea appeals to me on one level I am so used to handing over my kids education to a set of work books or another curriculum. It's also the very thing that I dislike about what we are currently doing and know that something has to change. So while this seems a huge challenge at the moment, I'm going to spend the rest of this year experimenting with a few ideas and pray that God will direct and guide me into the right direction. This will definitely be something that I'll be trying. I've got nothing to lose, even if I use some of the approach.

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