A New View on Homework
Schools consider eliminating homework grades
This article reports on an initiative in Middletown Ohio to revise their policy on homework. According to the article:
Under the proposed policy, homework would no longer be graded toward a
report card grade and is clearly defined as specific tasks to be
completed outside of school hours. The proposal also includes a
stipulation that homework not be assigned with the assumption that
parents or guardians will provide students with supplemental materials
or assistance.
One of their basic ideas is to refocus the homework on self-assessment and reflection. Interesting, these are the types of assignments that I have found most effective on my class blog. Another key idea is to achieve parity. Since parents often help with homework and not all students have access to this type of help at home, changing the emphasis of homework tries to level the playing field.
Check here too for some commendary from Education Week magazine, along with a video of part of the Board discussion.
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