SelfDesign learner Grace wasn’t looking forward to writing the three grade 10 and 12 provincial assessments she needed in order to get her Dogwood Diploma (B.C. Graduation Certificate). Every young person in B.C. seeking to finish grade 12 with a [...]
SelfDesign learners have a good track record for receiving the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care’s School District/Authority Scholarships. In 2022, three of our commencing grade 12 learners won four of the $1,250 scholarships, which can be used to [...]
As an online school for 21st-century learning, SelfDesign approaches innovation broadly and holistically. We innovate and evolve our learner-centred educational programs and services based on an understanding of cutting-edge research in the fields of pedagogy, human development, neuroscience and technology. [...]
We recognize that parents and guardians know their child’s needs best and may have clear ideas as to the types of learning activities that would facilitate their growth and development. A number of SelfDesign parents and guardians share their insights about how they view and approach their role of supporting their children’s learning.
Imposter syndrome. skepticism and fear of judgement are often the biggest challenges parents face when deciding to homeschool their kids. Lori Bender is one of these parents. She felt insecure in her ability and unsure of what her children were supposed to be learning for their age groups. It caused her to question whether home learning would be the right decision for her family. Luckily, her friend with an older son had taken the leap, giving Lori the opportunity to observe and ask questions before making her final decision. She dove into homeschooling shortly after, and years later, she’s still overjoyed with her choice.
To help support families and educators as they make the shift to SelfDesign’s unique approach to learning, we offer a guided, interactive online course that explores the SelfDesign philosophy in the practice of their daily family lives.
The BC Ministry of Education and Child care has invited SelfDesign Learning Community to continue the process to become a virtual school hub, or independent provincial online learning school (POLS–Independent).
All of our BC certified educators advise, guide, mentor and support learners and families through the learning process, but their titles vary. Here is a quick guide to the different kinds of educators our learners and families may work with at SelfDesign.
Being actively curious about others is key in creating relationship. In this second article in our series about SelfDesign philosophy, we delve into what “being curious” means and how asking questions challenges our assumptions, leads to learning, and helps us develop the wisdom that comes from honouring multiple views even if we may not agree with them.
Awareness of past, present and future is vital in daily life. In this first article in our series about SelfDesign philosophy, we delve into what “being present” means and how improving our conscious awareness of the present can help us in our relationships, including with our children and with learners.
