Over the last couple of years, there has been a lot of debate over whether homework should continue to be set by schools. A number of schools have now taken the step of removing homework (especially from primary years) however, it has caused questions from both teachers and parents about whether this is the right step.
So let us look at the arguments for and against.
For
Number 1 – Memory
Practice makes perfect and by revising subjects and topics learnt in class the argument is made that students are more likely to remember those skills in the future. In turn this will help them in their overall educational achievement. It also helps to improve their discipline.
Number 2 – Homework leads to Educational Achievement
Studies that have been undertaken show that homework conducted in the evening leads to improved results in the core subjects of English, Maths and Science. The studies suggest that a couple of hours a night can have a good effect on results and that the more students invest in time spent studying typically the better the result.
Number 3 – An Equal Footing
Suggestions have been made that removing homework allows kid’s to learn in different ways – through reading, using their own workbooks and studying other subjects outside of school. However, there is a strong debate about the effect this has on students from different socio-economic backgrounds with parents who have more money being typically able to help students more as they can afford to ensure students are getting different enriching experiences. Homework helps to get parents involved in their children’s learning without additional cost and expense.
Against
Number 1 – Let Children Be Children
Certainly, from a primary age one of the big arguments against homework is that children need to be allowed to be children. Children grow through using their imagination; they will read more for enjoyment than simply because they have to, they will take part in sports, develop relationships better with other students and teachers and feel trusted to learn.
Number 2 – Pressure and Anxiety
It causes children at a young age unnecessary pressure and anxiety that they simply do not need. Students can still learn outside of school, through reading and experiences, without the demands and burden of homework.
Number 3 – Environment
A final argument it that it is wrong to assume that all students have a good environment in which to learn at home. Students come from different socio-economic backgrounds and not all will have an area in which they can quietly study at home. This means that studying at home doesn’t necessarily help all students learn discipline and the ability to work independently.
We’d love to hear your views on whether you feel homework is beneficial for children, whether you’re in favour of scrapping homework or feel it has a place in schools.
For more in our series of blogs read here!
