Growing up in a rural area, I had the unique experience of being deschooled. Deschooling is a concept that originated from Ivan Illich’s book “Deschooling Society,” where he argues that traditional schooling often hinders true learning and personal growth. In a rural setting, this concept takes on a whole new meaning.
Rural deschooling allowed me to learn in unconventional ways, outside the confines of a traditional classroom. Instead of sitting at desks and following strict schedules, I was able to explore nature, engage in hands-on activities, and pursue my interests at my own pace. Living in a small community meant that resources were limited, but creativity flourished as we found innovative ways to learn and grow.
One of the most significant aspects of rural deschooling was the close-knit community that supported and nurtured learning. Neighbors became teachers, local businesses offered apprenticeships, and everyone played a role in educating the younger generation. This sense of collective responsibility fostered a deep sense of connection and belonging that is often missing in mainstream education systems.
I remember spending hours exploring the woods with friends, discovering plant species, building forts, and observing wildlife. These experiences not only taught me about nature but also instilled in me a sense of wonder and curiosity that continues to drive my thirst for knowledge. Learning wasn’t confined to textbooks; it was all around us waiting to be explored.
Rural deschooling also emphasized practical skills such as gardening, cooking, woodworking, and animal husbandry. These hands-on activities not only taught us valuable life skills but also instilled a sense of self-reliance and independence. We learned by doing rather than just memorizing facts from books.
As I look back on my childhood spent deschooling in rural America, I am grateful for the freedom it afforded me to learn authentically and deeply connect with my surroundings. While mainstream education has its merits, there is something truly special about the organic learning process that occurs when children are given the space to explore their interests naturally. Rural deschooling may not be for everyone, but for those who are open to alternative forms of education, it can be an enriching and transformative experience.
Alternative Amie 