The debate over whether schools should abolish homework has been ongoing for years. While homework has traditionally been seen as an essential part for education, providing students with additional practice and reinforcing concepts learned in class, there is growing evidence that suggests homework may not be as beneficial as once thought. In fact, there are several compelling reasons why schools should consider abolishing homework.
Homework can contribute to significant stress and anxiety among students. Many students are already burdened with a full day of classes, extracurricular activities, and other responsibilities. Adding hours of homework to their daily routine can lead to burnout and mental health issues. Some say homework is “all pain and no gain.” Teachers give homework so the students get more practice, but it should be optional and up to the students if they want extra help or not. Also some teachers give homework because they don’t finish everything in class, but that is 100% their own fault. Some students do not always get the recommended amount of sleep their doctors tell them to because they often stay up late so they can finish their homework since it is always due the next day. This causes many students to stress.
According to a study published in the Helping Families Thrive“In addition to homework reducing opportunities for play, it also leads to increased conflicts and stress for families. For example, research finds that children with more hours of homework experience more academic stress, physical health problems, and lack of balance in their live.” By eliminating homework, schools can help reduce the pressure on students and promote a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Secondly, students have little time to do homework between school and extracurriculars. So many students are involved in sports, clubs or plays. Many stay up late to finish their homework for the next day and do not get the recommended eight hours of sleep. It is hard to have a balance.
Lastly, abolishing homework can encourage students to develop important life skills that are not tied to academic achievement. Without homework, students have more time to explore their interests, participate in extracurricular activities, and engage in events in their community. These experiences can help them develop skills, for example, time management, teamwork and problem-solving, which are essential for success in the world. In addition, having more free time allows students to pursue their own passions and discover new talents, creating a sense of creativity and curiosity that can benefit them throughout their lives.
According to Helping Families Thrive, “Students from higher income families show improved academic skills with more homework and gain more knowledge from homework, according to research.” Many parents say it is beneficial to have homework every night to get more practice with what the students learned in class. Parents also say it teaches their kids how to have better time management because they have to balance academics, extracurriculars and their social activities.
There are several compelling reasons on why schools should abolish homework for all students. Homework can contribute to student stress and anxiety, have little time to do homework between school and extracurriculars and getting rid of homework can encourage students to develop important life skills that are not tied to academic achievement. By eliminating homework schools can advance a healthier, more balanced lifestyle for all students, encourage the development of crucial life skills and improve the quality of instruction in the classroom. The objective of education should be to encourage students to become well-rounded individuals throughout the rest of their lives. Abolishing homework could be a step in the right direction toward achieving that goal.
