In early colonial times, what were homes that served as schools called?

In early colonial times, homes that served as schools were known as dame schools. These informal educational settings were typically run by women, often in their own homes, where young children, primarily those of lower socio-economic status, were taught basic literacy and numeracy skills. The term "dame school" refers to the fact that it was usually a woman (the dame) providing education, often in a nurturing environment that mimicked the home setting.

Dame schools played a significant role in early education, especially before more formal educational institutions were established. They were accessible and attractive for families who lived in rural areas or who could not afford to send their children to more formal schooling. This reflects how education began to evolve in America, setting the foundation for future developments in the schooling system. The other terms listed represent different educational models that developed later, so they do not apply to this specific context of early colonial education.