Questioning the effectiveness of homework

No high school in America is identical, but chances are all of them have this in common. They give homework to their students. Today, studies have shown that homework is unbeneficial and stresses teenagers unnecessarily. Others say it is an essential part of school and helps students learn and be disciplined.

Studies show that homework improves SAT scores. Research by the High School revealed that students who spend an average of 30 to 90 minutes on homework each night scored 40 points higher on the mathematical section of the SAT than students who spent 0 time doing homework.

man writing in a book — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

As a student, I don’t go home eager to tell my parents what I learned every day. Homework allows parents to see what their child is learning and how they are progressing. It also shows parents their child’s work ethic.

Homework can help teach discipline and work habits. As a multi-sport athlete, I’ve had to create a routine for getting my homework done after practice. These good work habits will help me succeed in college and the future.

According to Oxford Learning, a study showed that too much homework can lead to exhaustion and headaches. I’m sure my peers can relate to feeling exhausted the day after completing a large homework assignment the night before. It is hard to learn new information and stay focused in class.

Embed from Getty Images

Data shows that homework is a major source of stress for teenagers. In a study by Stanford University, 56% of students at well-reputable high schools said that homework is a primary source of stress. While some stress is not bad, too much can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental and physical health issues.

Some experts believe that homework does not affect learning. John Hattie, a well-known professor and author from New Zealand, has stated that homework has zero benefits for high school students. I’ve never felt that when I don’t understand something in class, my homework that night helps me learn it. Also, we have more access to information than ever in human history. Answers to most homework assignments are a few taps and clicks away from students. Over 50% of students say they use search engines to help complete homework, meaning very little learning is happening.

silver ipad on table — Photo by AS Photography on Pexels.com

We are just kids, and we’re only young once. Homework takes time away from family and friends. This school year is the last time my family will live under one roof full-time before I go to college. Time with my brothers and parents is precious, and homework takes away from it. Less homework gives me more time to be with the people who matter most.

I don’t believe that homework should be thrown out entirely. However, no student should have more than an hour and a half of homework a night. Evidence shows that little to no more information is taken in after an hour and a half of work. Teachers should know this and not assign ginormous homework assignments but instead do more tasks and activities in class. Homework does serve a purpose, but too much can harm students.