Hi Kim,

Thanks for the reply.

Most homeschoolers can easily adapt materials as necessary. The only problem would be if it required interaction between a number of students.

I look forward to getting a copy soon.

Thanks,

Jimmie Houchin

Kim Rose wrote:

Hi, again, Jimmie -

We believe the book *will* be of value to homeschoolers such as you and your family! We are aware of the need for materials for homeschoolers that can offer "good practices" of integrating the use of computers into learning activities.

The book is intended to serve as an introduction to the Etoy component (tile interface) of Squeak and it includes 12 "on-computer" projects and several off-computer "excursions" that build upon each other in a sequence. We show connections to the math or science concepts the projects are teaching/using. We assume the audience/reader to be a newcomer to Squeak/Etoys.

The book/projects do not necessarily desire or require a classroom (althogh we have titled it "...in the classroom"). The projects can be completed by a single learner or a small group.

We hope it will serve to introduce you to what might be possible within this learning environment and be a launching pad for you to create additional projects of your own.

cheers, Kim

At 11:09 AM -0500 8/14/03, Jimmie Houchin wrote:

...

My wife and I homeschool our children.

How appropriate or good would the book "Powerful Ideas in the Classroom - Using Squeak to Enhance Math and Science Learning" by BJ Allen-Conn and Kim Rose with Afterword by Alan Kay be for homeschoolers?

What kind of knowledge or expections are made of the teacher? Is it appropriate for single students or does it desire a class?

Any information regarding the book and homeschooling greatly appreciated.

Jimmie Houchin

---

Squeakland mailing list Squeakland@squeakland.org http://squeakland.org/mailman/listinfo/squeakland

Hello Alan,

Thanks for the reply.

I look forward seeing what materials become available for self or assisted learning. Any materials aimed at self or assisted (mentored, tutored) learning would be of benefit to homeschoolers or anyone who wants to learn on their own outside of an institution.

So the materials don't necessarily have to expressly address homeschool, but merely self-directed learning.

There are many local homeschooling organizations, support groups where homeschoolers meet to ask/answer questions. Some of these groups offer classes for a variety of subjects that desire/require a group of students. These would be interesting places to introduce Squeak.

I think it would be interesting if homeschoolers were encouraged to buy the DVD and show it at a meeting. The price of the DVD is certainly no obstacle.

Maybe after I watch the DVD I'll see about writing/emailing homeschool support groups to encourage them to show the DVD at a meeting.

My wife and I do not belong to one as we live in a smalltown of only 1700. The nearest group is 20 miles away and my job currently doesn't allow the freedom to participate.

Another interesting thing would be if someone could do a presentation at Homeschool Book fairs. Show the DVD in the presentation, answer a few questions and have a table with available books. You or your staff may not want to travel the country but I'm sure theres a fair nearby where you live. Could be fun. Maybe over time a network of Squeakers could develop to accomplish this with people only handling their local fair.

The homeschool market is not restricted by the government on its materials. Homeschoolers have the freedom to do this, whereas many Public Schools don't.

Just thinking out load. :)

Jimmie Houchin

Alan Kay wrote:

Hi Jimmie --

I think homeschooling is generally a very good idea -- and we have in our plans to try to do quite a bit more to help homeschoolers over the next several years.

I think any parent and/or teacher should be able to start from scratch with this book -- that is the intent. All the projects can be done by a single student.

One of the things you might consider as part of homeschooling is to set up community clubs in certain areas (like science) where a number of children can learn and do projects together.

Cheers,

Alan

======

At 11:09 AM -0500 8/14/03, Jimmie Houchin wrote:

...

My wife and I homeschool our children.

How appropriate or good would the book "Powerful Ideas in the Classroom - Using Squeak to Enhance Math and Science Learning" by BJ Allen-Conn and Kim Rose with Afterword by Alan Kay be for homeschoolers?

What kind of knowledge or expections are made of the teacher? Is it appropriate for single students or does it desire a class?

Any information regarding the book and homeschooling greatly appreciated.

Jimmie Houchin