The word "deschool" is a verb that means to remove from traditional schooling or to unlearn habitual ways of thinking. It is spelled as "dee-skool" with the phonetic transcription of /di-skul/. The "e" after the "d" indicates the negation of the word "school". The stress is on the first syllable "de", and the "oo" sound is replaced by the "u" sound. Deschooling is a process that promotes self-directed learning and helps individuals break free from the constraints of the traditional educational system.
Deschooling refers to the process of breaking away from or dismantling traditional educational structures, systems, and practices. It involves challenging the conventional notions and expectations associated with formal schooling and embracing alternative methods of education.
Deschooling is based on the belief that education should not be limited to a rigid institutional setting but should instead encompass a broader range of experiences and learning opportunities. It encourages individuals to question and critically examine the purpose and effectiveness of traditional schooling. The focus shifts towards individual interests, autonomy, self-directed learning, and practical skills development.
During the process of deschooling, individuals may undertake a period of reflection, unlearning, and reevaluation of their educational assumptions and values. They may seek out alternative educational approaches, such as unschooling, homeschooling, or community-based learning, which allow for more freedom, flexibility, and customization of the learning experience.
Deschooling challenges the idea that learning can only happen within the confines of a classroom, a teacher-student hierarchy, or a prescribed curriculum. It promotes the idea that education can be a lifelong process and can happen anywhere, at any time, and through various mediums. It empowers individuals to take ownership of their own learning journey, pursue their passions and interests, and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills.
Overall, deschooling represents a shift in how education is conceptualized and practiced, emphasizing the importance of individual choice, agency, and a learner-centered approach.
The word "deschool" is a form of the prefix "des-" combined with the noun "school". The prefix "des-" comes from the Old French "des-", meaning "to undo" or "remove". It ultimately traces back to the Latin prefix "dis-", which has a similar meaning.
The word "school" originated from the Latin word "schola", which means "lecture" or "place of instruction". "Schola" itself is derived from the Greek word "skholḗ", meaning "leisure" or "spare time". In ancient Greece, the notion of schooling was associated with leisure and learning, as only the privileged few had access to formal education.
The term "deschool" emerged in the 1970s and gained popularity with Ivan Illich's book titled "Deschooling Society", published in 1971.