Does homework help improve learning?
The pros and cons of homework are always hotly debated, with some parents and teachers feeling it has little value and others believing regular set homework pays dividends. According to an Ofsted report currently, more than a third of parents don't think their primary school child should be doing homework even though some studies show homework can:
1. Enhance learning by reinforcing key concepts learned in class, especially reading and maths.
2. Foster independent skills such as revision and exam techniques.
3. Improve retention.
Experts agree that homework is most valuable when the work set is "meaningful, manageable, and aligned with classroom work." Yet, to add the correct value, the work set should cater to the pupil's needs, which is hard to do when there is a range of abilities in a class.
Primary school homework
Some research supports the idea that homework improves learning outcomes, especially from Year 10 onwards. However, other studies argue its effectiveness is limited (outside of daily reading), particularly with primary school-aged children, whose homework time does not correlate with academic performance improvements.
Research from the Education Endowment Foundation has found that the quality of the homework set is more important than the quantity of work required from the pupil. Evidence shows that homework's impact diminishes as the amount of time pupils spend on it increases as it can lead to fatigue and cognitive overload, which can make students less able to learn.
It's also vital to consider how homework relates to learning at school. Homework should consolidate work already done at school. Link to work that's being taught in class and have multiple benefits besides purely being homework. To maximise impact, students must also receive high-quality feedback on their homework.
Secondary school homework
Research also shows that homework has a much more significant effect at secondary school and has additional value, such as enabling pupils to undertake independent learning to practice, consolidate their skills, and revise for exams.
Helping your child with homework at this age can be challenging, so don't be afraid to contact the teacher for support. Also, utilise resources given to pupils, such as revision guides and exam resources.
Tasks should be linked to classroom learning, and homework aims should be clear to pupils. Again, high-quality feedback is key to improving pupil learning and helping pupils be motivated to do work.
How you can help your child with homework
There are several ways to help your child with homework. The primary advice is to take their homework seriously, which will encourage them to do the same. This means being clear that the work must be done and handed in on time and that time and effort must be put in.
It can also help to have a set routine when homework is to be done and handed in. This is harder at the secondary level as homework is set on different days, so encourage your child to check their homework apps and Google Classroom to see what's been set and when it's due.
Focusing on time management and organisation can go a long way to helping older children with homework, as can creating a homework space where your child can work without distractions.
If your child needs help, stick to the method they have learnt in class, especially with Maths; otherwise, it will confuse and distress them. Teachers can advise here.
If your child is struggling to complete their homework, talk to the school so that gaps in learning can be addressed.
For older students who find homework difficult, provide help around resources and encourage them to talk to their teacher or a tutor (see below).
Finally, feel free to let your child's teacher know if your child becomes upset about the amount of homework being set or if you think it's excessive. Again homework is of no benefit if your child isn't consolidating what they have already learnt in class.
How a tutor can help your child with homework
The problem with homework is that feedback is often not given due to time constraints; this is where a tutor can be a great resource for helping your child's learning.
If you need help understanding a particular concept or topic, a tutor can break it down into more straightforward steps similar to how your child is taught in school. They can also guide your child through problem-solving by showing them how to approach a problem, organise work, and apply the appropriate methods or formulas.
Tutors also offer bespoke one-on-one teaching that will help identify areas where your child might be struggling and focus extra attention on weaknesses that may hold your child back.
Unlike a classroom setting, a tutor can focus solely on your child's specific needs, adapting lessons and support to suit your child's learning style and pace.
Further reading
7 websites and apps to help with homework