A demographic analysis of parents in Virginia who choose home instruction to educate their children

The purpose of this study was to analyze the demographic characteristics and validate reasons why parents in Virginia choose home schooling to educate their children. Approximately 300 approved parents in Virginia are currently providing home schooling for their children.

A questionnaire and interview schedule was developed to provide information on the characteristics and reasons associated with this form of alternative educational program being provided by parents.

This descriptive study addresses the population of parents in Virginia who educate their children at home. A questionnaire was sent to 100 randomly selected group of parents who are approved by the state to teach their children at home. Additionally, an interview was conducted with 10 randomly selected parents from this total population who received the questionnaire. The data in the study consisted of responses by 74 parents. Data was tabulated and reported using descriptive and inferential status. all computations were done on an IBM computer using the statistical package for the social services (SPSSX).

The following are the conclusions made as a result of the findings: As participants in home schooling, parents believe that public/private schools are a threat to their children's moral character. Also, that home schooling provides a better learning environment since parents are able to give more time (individual attention) and love to their children while learning.

Major reasons for home schooling are lack of good moral and character development public poor quality of public school education and desire to extend parent-child contact.

General characteristics of parents revealed by the responses indicate parents are small family structured averaging two children, upper incomes, providing a more child-centered program.