Unschooling Research - Call for Participants

From: Sandra B. Schneider, Ph.D and Kristan A. Morrison, Ph.D

Re:  Qualitative research project

Hello parent(s)/guardian(s):

We are conducting a qualitative research project on unschooling mothers/families.

The purpose of this study is to describe the experiences, perspectives and day-to-day experiences of progressive homeschooling (unschooling) mothers/families.  The information we gather for this project will be used for various academic purposes, such as publications in books and journals along with professional presentations.

The information you share will be kept confidential.

You are receiving this note because you were identified as a potential participant. Please note the procedural requirements for participation in this research study:

1. Face-to-face interview of approximately 70 minute duration (possibly up to two follow-up interviews,    but only if you are willing, of course).       Phone interviews can be done if geographical distance is too much.
2. Honest, open reflection regarding your unschooling experiences and perspectives.

The subject population for this study is unschooling families - parent(s)/guardian(s) 18 years or older, either biologically male or female, who self identify as progressive and engaged in homeschooling (often termed “unschooling”).

The following definition of unschooling will be the criteria for participation:

Families which engage in homeschooling their children in such a way that allows the student some self-direction on what is studied, when, and how.  Families that follow a form of homeschooling that is self-directed in nature and seeks to avoid reproducing the learning structures of school in the home.

If you are interested in participation in this study, please reply to the researchers, Sandra Schneider at sschneider@radford.edu or Kristan Morrison kmorrison12@radford.edu for further information such as interview scheduling or any additional information you may need to aid you in making your decision. Additionally, if you know of other parent(s)/guardian(s) who may be interested please forward this message to him or her.

We hope to hear from you soon!

If you would prefer, please call Sandra Schneider (540-831-5302) or Kristan Morrison (540-831-7120) regarding your participation.

Sincerely,

Sandra Schneider and Kristan Morrison

Radford University

RU Institutional Review Board: Project No. FY 12-090
Approved on March 12, 2012