Homework attitudes can swing wildly in both directions. Where do you stand? Educators, parents, and students have debated homework for decades. Public opinion swings between strong support for homework and concern about its value and effectiveness.
Homework can be a double-edged sword. Many view it as an essential tool to help solidify what is learned in class and an opportunity for students to apply new skills on their own. However, too much homework can work the opposite of its intended purpose.
According to a 2006 Duke University meta-analysis, there is a positive correlation between homework and grades. Simply put, students who did homework performed better in school.
Learning Styles & Homework Attitudes
Not everyone learns the same way. So, when it comes to homework, embracing learning styles supports the idea that everyone processes information differently.
The approach to homework can be different for each student, depending on their learning style. Some students are great with structured assignments, others thrive with self-directed projects, and some learn best with hands-on learning. What type of learner is your child?
Quality, Not Quantity
Rather than drowning students in endless tasks, teachers aim to assign meaningful assignments that encourage critical thinking and creativity.
Homework assignments aim to engage students’ curiosity and intellect, resulting in deeper learning and understanding of the subject matter. Focusing on quality over quantity fosters a love for learning and encourages students to take ownership of their education.
Both the National PTA and the National Education Association endorse what’s known as the “ten–minute rule.” The ten minutes is a simple guideline that states that homework should be 10 minutes per grade level per day. Read more
Family Involvement Builds Positive Homework Attitudes
How much should parents help with homework? Parental involvement is shown to play an important role in their children’s learning. When parents help with homework, it cultivates positive learning behaviours, reinforces class material, and signals the value of education. But there is a right way and a wrong way to help students with homework. Too much help and students are engaged in their own learning.
Parents can support students during homework and help them cultivate healthy homework attitudes by:
- Setting and enforcing a homework time
- Creating an area in the home where all materials are accessible
- Working on their own project alongside their child
- Showing where to find support
- Helping build organization skills
- Monitoring stress levels.
Need Help with Homework?
GradePower Learning’s tutoring programs aim to help your child develop essential study and learning skills. These learning skills will pave the way for their success throughout their life.
With our personalized programs and support, our tutors help your child’s academic growth.
Whether it’s improving subject-specific knowledge or fostering a positive attitude toward homework, our program caters to students’ unique needs.
Together, we can lay a strong foundation for a bright and prosperous academic career.
Contact a location near you to learn more.
