Journal #6: "Ten Reasons to Get Rid of Homework!"

Spencer, J. (September, 19, 2011). [Web log message]. Retrieved from http://www.educationrethink.com/2011/09/ten-reasons-to-get-rid-of-homework-and.html.

Summary:  In this blog post John T. Spencer grabs attention by slamming traditional homework assignments.  Citing factors from student activity overload to the fact that homework is not self-directed, he seeks to convince his audience that the traditional concept of homework is counter-productive if true learning is an educator's goal.  On the positive side, he also provides five alternatives to homework that he's found to be successful.

While Spencer's post provides interesting food for thought and may in fact raise entirely valid concerns for grades K-8, I was not convinced that homework has to go.  
In response, I offer
Five Reasons I Support Homework 
(for grades 9-12)

1.  Most students won't voluntarily engage in activities at home that will provide meaningful learning.  With all of the distractions available today--from TV to Facebook, to Twitter--I find it hard to believe that a teenager is going to choose to read a book, write a persuasive memo, or even create a documentary just for fun.  

2.  For advanced classes and those that are achievement-test oriented (like the AP program), in-class activities alone do not give students enough practice to ensure success.  Students in these classes must spend time writing in AND out of class in order to be super familiar with both the facts and the technique.  Plus, with apologies to Mr. Spencer, "learning at the skate park," or "build[ing] a bridge for fun," is NOT going to adequately prepare a student to pass an AP test!

3.  Doing homework and doing well on homework helps students get good scores on tests.  In my opinion, getting grades on test IS a "meaningful goal" and getting a good grade in a class is even more motivating...especially if you want to get into college!

4.  Spencer maintains that homework is difficult for parents--because they have to enforce completion, or implement "someone else's pre-planned learning situation."  However, by the time the child is 13 or 14, he or she should be the one responsible for getting the homework done and going in to see the teacher for help.  Raising kids is all about gradually preparing them for the responsibilities of adulthood, and adulthood includes getting things done that aren't that fun, but are either necessary or helpful in the long term (tax filing, anyone?).  When a child can successfully balance and complete their homework assignments without a parent's intervention, they are one step closer to becoming a successful, self-motivating and organized adult.  
5.  Often, activities that have become "traditional" have gotten that status because they work.  John Spencer criticizes the traditional concept of homework because it involves packets, or happens indoors.  He cites conflicting studies about the relationship between homework and achievement.  Homework has been around for a very long time and I believe that the skill practice it provides is beneficial to student learning.  Athletes train, musicians practice....and students do homework.  It's a time-honored approach and I am not in favor of replacing it with fun, but non-academic skill activities.