Revisiting the home learning environment: Introducing the home learning ecosystem

Abstract

This commentary paper offers a broader definition of the construct of the home learning environment and an updated conceptual framework. Recent empirical research has burgeoned on the home learning environment and is mainly examining how processes mediate the way parenting practices influence a child’s development and learning. By introducing the Home Learning Ecosystem, the paper presents a holistic view of the different home learning environment components and focuses on the interaction among those. It also expands and updates the way learning activities are perceived and acknowledges the quality of the home learning interactions – by distinguishing them from the general parenting styles – and the quality of the proximal caregiving environment as the heart of the home learning environment.