My thoughts on a contentious issue. Not super scientific, but I pointed to several resources:
Harris Cooper synthesized research in the mid 90's, and is often cited as support for giving kids homework: https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2019/03/homework-research-how-much/585889/ Alfie Kohn, author of "The Homework Myth" takes issue with Cooper's conclusions. Read him here: https://www.edutopia.org/no-proven-benefits As I often do, I looked back in my library at an old favorite- Classroom Instruction that Works by Marzano, Pickering, and Pollack- get a copy on Amazon (holy cow, it's cheap!) https://www.amazon.com/Classroom-Instruction-that-Works-Research-Based/dp/0131195034 Takeaways: when judging the value of homework, consider the purpose of the task, don't use it as an assessment, keep the routine and structure familiar, check for understanding, and give timely feedback. |