![[The River Houses]](https://riverhouses.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/arms-icon-100x100.png "The River Houses"){kind=icon}
![[Homeschool Research]](https://riverhouses.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/magnifying-glass-emoji-right-150x150.png)
On the third Tuesday of each month we post a quick roundup of some recent academic publications and news about homeschooling, offered for your interest. These are typically university research papers, and they may have a positive, negative, or neutral outlook on home education. The title links generally point to the full text of each publication, which is often a printable pdf file. In some cases, a paid subscription may be required to read the whole article. The article abstracts or introductions below are quoted in full whenever possible, without editing.
We have four items for the month, on single-parent homeschooling; homeschooling theory; homeschooling in the Persian Gulf region; and homeschooling spouses:
(1) A Phenomenological Study of Homeschooling from a Single Parent Perspective: Pipe Dream or Possibility? — S.C. Ball (2025)
Abstract: The purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand the lived experiences of single parents who chose to homeschool their students in South Florida. The theory guiding this study was Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems. The central research question was focused on how single-parent home educators describe their experience. The methodology used was qualitative, utilizing the following data collection methods: personal interviews, journaling, and focus groups. The participants were single parents — widowed, divorced, or by choice — who chose to homeschool their students in South Florida. Once the data were collected, the analysis included identifying commonalities, recognizing emergent themes, and transcribing the conversations to provide a vivid description of the experience as reported by the participants. The results suggested single parents shared many characteristics of confidence, determination, and spirituality. They also shared similar fears of failure, both academically and financially; however, those who found support were able to engage in successful homeschool journeys.
(2) Homeschooling as a Threshold Space: Critical Reflections on Educational Relationships, Places, and Responsibilities — A. Biscaldi, A. Chinazzi, & E. Ruffolo (2026)
Abstract: In this article, homeschooling is theoretically conceptualized as a “threshold space,” which transcends polarized views of homeschooling as merely an “alternative” educational approach, emphasizing a potential dialog between home- and institutional schooling. By situating homeschooling within this dynamic arena, the study invites critical reflection on educational relationships, spaces, and responsibilities, challenging entrenched assumptions about institutionalized education. Drawing on extensive field research in Italy, where homeschooling is legally recognized yet often marginalized, the article highlights how this educational choice serves as a generative force for reimagining education. By examining key issues, such as educational relationships, learning environments, and parental responsibilities, the research underscores the potential of homeschooling to illuminate and question the foundational norms of education, ultimately advocating for a more nuanced understanding of learning that embraces diversity and complexity. This work contributes to the cultural critique of education and promotes a systemic perspective on future educational practices.
(3) Homeschooling: Beyond Academic Achievement — R.G. Medlin (2026)
Abstract: This chapter provides an overview of the changing landscape of homeschooling within the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). It describes the current state, challenges, and family experiences in the field through primary data obtained from a survey, surveys, interviews with parents who chose homeschooling in the region, and analysis of regional policies. While the Homeschooling domain in the GCC is still developing, there are positive efforts from official educational authorities to address the diverse family needs across the region. Unlike trends witnessed in Western countries, this chapter highlights Gulf-specific motivations such as lack of access to school and financial constraints. Key challenges identified were organizational ambiguity, lack of opportunities for socialization, and difficulties in accessing educational support in the Gulf. A model for home education is suggested in this chapter, stating the need to supply flexible resources and opportunities along with precise regulations.
(4) Characteristics of the Spousal Relationship Among Homeschooling Parents — A. Neuman, O. Guterman, & E. Gill (2026)
Abstract: Homeschooling is an educational approach in which parents choose to educate their children at home instead of sending them to public or private schools. In this framework, the responsibility for education lies with the parents, who determine the curriculum, methods, and pace. In recent decades, numerous academic studies have examined the phenomenon of homeschooling. However, despite its significant impact on the couple’s relationship, this aspect remains underresearched. The current study aims to shed partial light on this topic by focusing on couples who choose to homeschool their children. Fifteen Israeli mothers who practice homeschooling were interviewed using semistructured in-depth interviews. The findings were analyzed using categorical content analysis. The results revealed a range of themes describing how mothers perceive their marital relationship within the context of homeschooling. These include a focus on the relationship, strategies for preserving it, challenges within it, and future orientation. The study shows that couples invest substantial effort in developing and maintaining their relationship and highlights the central role of the couple’s bond in the stability and growth of homeschooling families. These findings align with the Sound Relationship House (SRH) theory, developed by John Gottman.
What interesting homeschool news and academic research have you come across this Orion Term? 🎓
❡ Explore more: If you’d like to investigate the academic literature on homeschooling more extensively, the best place to start is Google Scholar, the special academic search engine from Google. Just enter a search term or phrase of interest (“homeschool,” “unschooling,” “classical homeschooling,” “deschooling,” etc.), and Google Scholar will return a list of research publications that mention your topic. In addition, for research prior to 2020 in particular, see the comprehensive bibliographic essay by Kunzman & Gaither (2020), “Homeschooling: An Updated Comprehensive Survey of the Research.” 🔎
❡ Stay in the loop: This is one of our regular Homeschool Research & News posts. Add your name to our weekly mailing list to get great homeschool teaching ideas delivered right to your mailbox all through the year. 📫
❡ Homeschool calendars: We have a whole collection of free, printable, educational homeschool calendars and planners available on our main River Houses calendar page. They will help you create a light and easy structure for your homeschool year. Give them a try today! 🗓️
❡ Support our work: If you enjoy our educational materials, please support us by starting your regular Amazon shopping from our very own homeschool teaching supplies page. When you click through from our page, any purchase you make earns us a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping us to keep going and growing! 🛒
