米国ホームスクール政策に関する理論的課題

子ども・親・州の三者関係に着目して

抄録

The present paper aims to review the current theoretical arguments in the U.S. on the homeschooling regulations and draw some significant implications. The main points of the arguments are as follows: Should regulations on homeschooling be based on the principle of child welfare policy or based on the principle of education policy? In the latter case, should the state impose not only the output regulations but also the input regulations upon homeschooling? The different claims on these points reflect conflicting views on childrenʼs autonomy. By reviewing these arguments, the present research paper reached the following conclusions. Firstly, parents who homeschool their children should perform some public tasks as teachers who provide compulsory education. Secondly, studies on such public tasks are important not only for homeschooling but also for school education. Lastly, by studying homeschooling regulations, the stateʼs role in education can be justified.