Time4Learning
Time4Learning was founded by John Edelson in 2004, with its origins deeply rooted in the founder's background in video game development and a passion for educational technology. Motivated by the desire to create learning tools that were both educational and engaging, Edelson transitioned from producing popular video games to developing an online educational platform. This shift was driven by his realization of the potential for interactive software to significantly enhance the educational process by making learning fun and accessible (citybiz).
Since its inception, Time4Learning has grown substantially, serving over 175,000 students as of 2021. The platform's recognition in the homeschooling community is reflected in its widespread usage across various states, particularly in Florida, Georgia, Texas, and South Carolina (Wikipedia). Time4Learning is also a part of Cambium Learning® Group, indicating its importance and stability in the educational technology landscape (Time4Learning).
Grades Covered :The curriculum serves students from PreK through 12th grade, offering a wide array of learning levels and subjects (Time4Learning).
Cost: Pricing is tiered based on educational levels:
PreK-5th Grade: $29.95 per month per student
6th-12th Grade: $39.95 per month per student Discounts are available for additional students (Time4Learning).
Differentiation: What Makes Time4Learning Special
Time4Learning sets itself apart through its use of technology to create interactive, engaging educational experiences that mirror the interactivity of video games. This approach is designed to make learning enjoyable and to cater to the diverse needs of students. It offers a comprehensive PreK-12 curriculum that includes a wide range of subjects and electives, from core subjects like math and language arts to electives such as coding and art (Time4Learning).
How It Works
Time4Learning provides a subscription-based virtual school or online curriculum where students can access learning materials anytime. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to progress at their own pace. It includes thousands of multimedia-based lessons, interactive activities, and printable worksheets, all designed to foster an engaging learning environment (Time4Learning).
How to Get Started
To begin with Time4Learning, parents can sign up through the platform's website, select the appropriate grade level for their children, and customize lesson plans to meet specific needs and interests. The service offers a 14-day money-back guarantee, providing an opportunity for families to try out the program risk-free (Time4Learning).
Educational Content
Time4Learning offers a diverse and comprehensive range of educational content that spans across multiple subjects and grade levels. Here is a robust bulleted list of the key components included in their curriculum:
Core Subjects for All Grades (PreK-12):
Mathematics: Concepts ranging from basic arithmetic to advanced calculus.
Language Arts: Includes reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary.
Science: Covers fundamental concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.
Social Studies: Geography, history, economics, and civics.
Electives for Middle and High School:
Foreign Languages: Including Spanish, French, Chinese, and German.
Health: Basics of health, wellness, and physical education.
Art: Foundations of art and practical art projects.
Music: Introduction to music theory and appreciation.
Technology and Computer Skills: Basic computing, coding, and information technology.
Additional Learning Programs and Tools:
Time4MathFacts: A game-based program designed to help students master basic math facts.
Time4Writing: A supplementary program offering guided writing instruction.
Time4Languages: Online foreign language courses available as an add-on.
Interactive Features:
Multimedia Lessons: Engaging videos, interactive simulations, and activities.
Assessments and Quizzes: Regular testing to evaluate progress and understanding.
Printable Worksheets: For additional practice offline.
Parental Support Tools:
Automated Reporting: Tracks student progress and performance.
Lesson Planning Tools: Helps parents schedule and organize lessons.
Activity Planner: Customize and plan educational activities based on the child's pace.
Additional Educational Resources:
Educational Playground: Age-appropriate games and activities to enhance learning.
Blog and Community Access: Insights, tips, and community support for homeschooli
Online School v Curriculum
Time4Learning's online school and its homeschool curriculum serve different educational needs and preferences, catering to a diverse range of learners. The curriculum is primarily designed as a self-paced, comprehensive tool for homeschooling, offering interactive, multimedia lessons across various subjects from PreK through 12th grade. This flexible structure allows parents to tailor the educational experience to their child’s learning speed and style, making it ideal for homeschoolers seeking a complete, ready-to-use educational program.
On the other hand, Time4Learning's online school, Brightspire, operates more like a traditional virtual school, providing structured learning paths with scheduled classes and more direct teacher involvement. This option is suitable for families looking for a more formal online education experience that includes regular assessments, progress tracking by certified teachers, and a structured learning environment similar to what one might find in a public or private school setting online. This differentiation addresses various educational requirements, from complete autonomy in learning to structured, guided education, ensuring that families can choose the option that best suits their educational goals and lifestyle.
What’s Good About It
Users appreciate Time4Learning for its comprehensive and flexible curriculum that caters to diverse learner needs. The platform's interactive format is particularly praised for keeping students engaged and motivated. Moreover, the addition of gamified elements and interactive assessments helps students master the material in an enjoyable way (Time4Learning).
What Could Be Improved
While Time4Learning offers many benefits, some users feel that there could be enhancements in areas such as the adaptability of the curriculum to various learning speeds and the depth of some subject materials. Additionally, more personalized feedback on student progress could enhance learning outcomes (Time4Learning).
Advice from Parents and caregivers
Many parents recommend setting a consistent daily schedule to ensure students get the most out of the curriculum. They also suggest integrating supplementary materials and activities to enrich the core content provided by Time4Learning (Time4Learning).
Ideal
Time4Learning is ideal for families looking for a comprehensive, flexible homeschooling solution that provides a broad range of subjects and caters to various educational needs.
Not ideal for
It may not be as suitable for families seeking highly specialized or advanced coursework, particularly at the high school level (Time4Learning).
Ways to Get It
Time4Learning can be accessed directly through their website, where parents can sign up and manage their subscriptions. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for new homeschoolers to get started (Time4Learning).
Top Secular Alternatives for All-in-One Curriculum:
Here are our favorite other all-in-one options for different types of learners.
Book Lovers, Gifted and Profoundly Gifted Learners: Torchlight Curriculum
For Gifted, Workbook-Lovers: Critical Thinking Co
Nature-Based Curriculum for creative, Hands-On Learners: Blossom and Root
Adaptive learning app for kids who love video games : BrainPOP Homeschool
For Middle and High School Students: Build Your Library
For kids who love watching videos, here are highly Engaging Free YouTube videos for middle and high school: Crash Course
For Project-Based, Standards-Aligned Curriculum and Online School: Oak Meadow
For Free or Freemium online curriculum: Khan Academy Kids, Khan Academy or FishTank Learning
Explore More All-in-One Secular Homeschooling Programs
Dive into our comprehensive review of Blossom and Root, a secular, nature-based homeschool curriculum that combines flexibility with a rich integration of the arts and literature. Discover how it can transform your homeschooling experience.