Common Misconceptions About Worldschooling

Can you imagine having a new city every week or month as your classroom? 

Worldschooling is a type of schooling where children are educated while traveling the world. This can be done through various means, such as parent-led learning on the move, online schooling, distance learning or even attending international schools. Though it’s a relatively new concept and hasn’t received a lot of coverage in research yet, the interest in worldschooling is growing and more of its concepts are being discussed in scientific works.

However, with such a radical concept of education, misconceptions come with it.

Misconception #1: Worldschooling is Expensive

While worldschooling can be more costly than traditional schooling, there are ways to worldschool on a budget. For example, you can travel to cheaper countries or travel slowly by staying in one place for extended periods. 

However, planning properly is the first and most important step to ensure affordability. Here are some tips to consider:

• Book flights ahead of time, and choose the cheapest dates. According to Macrothink Institute, a 2- to 4-week long worldschooling retreat may cost from $2,500 to $4,000. 
• Lease your apartment or house to earn additional cash while you’re away. CEO of Land Investing Online Daniel Apke suggests hiring an agent to take care of everything since you’ll be far from home and may not always be reachable via phone.

Misconception #2: Worldschooling is Disruptive

While it’s true that worldschooling can be disruptive if children are enrolled in a physical day school, the same isn’t true for those who are exclusively worldschoolers. Proper lesson planning that’s integrated with travel may actually prove more beneficial than traditional schooling. 

There are other ways, as well, to worldschool without disrupting your child’s education, especially if you prefer your child to be enrolled in a brick-and-mortar school. For example, you can choose to worldschool during the summer or winter break, or part-time. You can also balance travel and education so your child can explore new cultures.

George Tsagas, owner and founder of eMathZone, says worldschool students can use local educators and educators as well as online resources.

“There are tens, if not hundreds, of phone/tablet apps that help children not only learn important life skills but also teach academic skills like languages, geography, history, science,” Tsagas says. “It has never been easier to worldschool than it is now.” 

Misconception #3: Worldschooling is Unsafe

Though worldschooling can be considered unsafe, even a regular holiday trip may be unsafe if you haven’t prepared for it properly, especially when traveling with children. Here are some tips on how to safely prepare for worldschooling:

• Check with your local pediatrician if you need any vaccinations before traveling to a particular destination. 
• Make sure you have a complete first-aid kit.
• Always have travel insurance. According to Nancy Mitchel, RN and content creator at Assisted Living, you should carefully review your travel insurance policy and make note of points related to children; many travel insurance companies offer free coverage for kids if they’re with parents.

Misconception #4: Worldschooling Must Include International Travel

While international travel can be a great way to learn about new cultures, it’s not necessary. There are many ways to worldschool without traveling internationally. For example, you can choose to worldschool in your own country or online. For example, in Central Texas, there are many opportunities to worldschool without leaving the state! 

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In the end, it’s up to the parents to decide what’s best for their family when it comes to education. But it’s important to note that worldschooling is becoming more and more of an option.

About the Author

Rachel Melegrito left her career as a university instructor to become a full-fledged content writer. She is also a licensed occupational therapist and a budding SEO strategist.