When you ask a kid whether he or she likes homework, you’ll most likely see a vigorously shaking head and hear a strongly emoted “NO”. When the unfamiliarity towards school education fades away after kindergarten, several kids become disenchanted with this time-honoured, but annoying foundation of education. While there is nothing surprising that most kids would like to spend their time playing their favourite games or watching cartoons, what do grown-up experts have to say about the importance of homework?
Researchers have exhibited that the right type of assignment can help kids succeed academically and on several standardised tests. The world of education has been swayed by parents, teachers and educational researchers in recent years, who have been voicing their concerns over the effectiveness of homework in the learning process. It has been noticed that many districts around the country have been concentrating on removing homework assignments at the elementary level. Therefore, it has become more important to know about the importance of regular homework habits. Being among the leading after-school programs, Kumon has organised the different reasons why homework is important for succeeding in academics.
Helps build responsibility
Some buzzwords and phrases in the educational community help in making students accountable and taking ownership of their learning. Homework helps students do exactly the same as they learn to take responsibility. They learn to face the consequences of their actions but also get rewarded with a good grade when completed successfully.
Develops work ethic from an early age
Students need to understand the importance of hard work and form the obligation and self-regulation to commit to their projects. Homework can help them develop a hard work ethic that will further help them in college and beyond.
Improves time management.
From kindergarten to K12, students struggle in managing time and prioritising tasks. For young children, parents guide kids to develop time management skills and do the assignments and homework. On the other hand, high school students have to focus more on learning how to manage several tasks in their schedule and plan which will take longer or shorter depending on their skill level, strengths or weaknesses.
Teaches study habits
Students who are not enrolled in preschool programs, enter kindergarten without knowing how to study. Therefore, they struggle with learning important study habits. Consistent homework can help students realise the importance of practice, especially when teachers provide timely feedback and offer tasks that directly relate to the unit quizzes or tests.
Gives confidence
Sometimes, students need to attempt problems or exercises on their own, which makes them realise that failure is an important part of the learning process. This is why after-school programs in India, such as Kumon, highly focus on self-learning skills so that when kids work through math problems or construct literature, they gain confidence and develop creative problem-solving skills.
Can offer valuable feedback.
Home assignments, when used correctly, can result in meaningful discussions or conferences in the classroom. Teachers can meet students one-on-one to discuss their observations regarding the tasks or use generalised whole-class feedback to offer children important tips on how to improve.
Parents can get more involved in their child’s education.
Homework allows parents to stay on the same page with their children as they work through units and lessons. It also allows them to connect with the teacher when they notice their kid struggling with any subject or topic. Particularly in the younger grades, homework can help parents be informed about their children’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing them ample intervention opportunities.
Wrapping It Up
What is the importance of homework in student success? Most educational researchers and theorists agree that homework, when given moderately and appropriately, can be a useful tool to help kids learn and grow. The proverb “quality-over-quantity” applies to any home-based task or assignment and timely feedback must be provided to assist students to learn the desired concept or skill. They must also understand the purpose and realise the relevancy of any assignment, whether carried out at home or in the classroom.
Kumon, being one of the best learning centres, specialises in nationwide Maths and English classes for preschool students through 12th grade. When kids are enrolled in Kumon, they not only eliminate homework struggles but also build a foundation of knowledge, confidence and independence that will last a lifetime. For any information about Kumon, visit our website.
