via Slashdot
Apparently one can have too much of a good thing. Homework is the latest example. Teachers (such as myself) often give homework because there isn't enough class time to thoroughly cover a subject. But it seems that, for many students, homework is actually counterproductive; those who need it most suffering the greatest harm.
To tell the truth, though I assign homework, and do my best to make it relate to the work we do in class, I'm not certain of the benefit to my students. When homework is graded (in any class) those whose parents can "help them" tend to get the best grades, even when most of the work isn't theirs, but also learn in direct proportion to their effort.
I do dislike the current system of education. I wonder whether it would be improved by spending a few years on a few topic or even 1/2 or 1/4 semester, and then switching. In this way study would be concentrated, one could spend more time on it (most of the day), and of course other subjects would naturally be incorporated within that study. (try to learn science without learning some math or reading for instance.)
Posted by Rachel Ann at June 1, 2005 11:48 AMYou should send this to the education carnival.
http://me-ander.blogspot.com/2005/06/another-carnival.html