unschooling
|un-school-ing|
/ʌnˈskuːlɪŋ/
(unschool)
learning without school
Etymology
'unschooling' originates from English, specifically the word 'unschool', where the prefix 'un-' meant 'not' and 'school' meant 'an institution for teaching or learning.'
'unschooling' developed from the verb 'unschool' (a back-formation using the negative prefix 'un-' with 'school') and the noun-forming/gerund suffix '-ing'; the compound gained currency in educational discourse in the mid- to late 20th century.
Initially it meant 'the act of removing someone from school or not sending them to school,' but over time it evolved to mean 'a deliberate educational approach emphasizing learning outside formal school structures and guided by the learner's interests.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an approach to education in which learners pursue their own interests and learn through life experiences rather than following a formal school curriculum; a form of homeschooling emphasizing child-led, interest-driven learning.
They decided to try unschooling so their children could follow their own interests and learn at their own pace.
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Verb 1
present participle or gerund of 'unschool'; to educate (someone, especially a child) outside the formal school system or to leave someone to learn from life and interests rather than formal lessons.
They unschool their children by allowing them to pursue projects and real-world experiences instead of attending a local school.
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Last updated: 2025/10/26 03:21