Students Contemplate Redesigning Homework for Enhanced Learning Experience
Rewritten Article:
Having piles of homework each day can feel like a never-ending struggle for Filipino students in face-to-face classes. This gruelingworkload raises questions about whether homework truly aids learning or if it's merely an overwhelming task.
Student Keira James De Los Reyes, currently in Grade 10 at Cebu City Don Carlos A. Gothong Memorial National High School, spends around two to three hours on homework daily. Incredibly, he maintains that it doesn't stress him. Nikki D. Gerundio, a Grade 11 ABM student at the University of Cebu - Main Campus, echoes this sentiment regarding the time commitment. When asked if homework helps understanding or feels like a tedious chore, she answers, "I believe it does help because the more you delve into a topic, sometimes it feels like a chore." However, Gerundio adds, "It would be more beneficial if the homework were relevant to the material we're studying."
James Mark C. Dumoran, a Grade 12 STEM student at ACLC-College of Mandaue, advocates for alternative assessment methods. By implementing quizzes or oral recitations, he argues, potentially reduces homework while maintaining learning quality.
Students shared their thoughts on ideal homework loads. De Los Reyes suggests, "I'd be content with an assignment every day, but don't bombard us with them all at once because we struggle because of it." Instead, he proposes, "It would be better to assign only one or two assignments per day, then another one or two the next day."
Gerundio envisions, "My idea of an optimal homework load would involve thoughtful assignments that inspire deeper learning and exploration." Similarly, Dumoran prefers homework that is manageable and not overly complex.
These insights from students challenge traditional homework practices in educational institutions. The shared experiences suggest that excessive daily homework can lead to undue pressure and disengagement, potentially hindering rather than aiding comprehension.
Rather than viewing homework as a chore, many people should see it as an opportunity for learning and development.
In response to this issue, schools can take a more thoughtful and balanced approach to homework, providing manageable assignments that align with real learning objectives. This will help students achieve a balance between productivity and mental health.
Alternative Homework Methods
- Choice Boards: Offer students choice in their homework assignments based on their interests or learning preferences, promoting autonomy and motivation.
- Project-Based Learning (PBL): Have students work on long-term, interdisciplinary projects that simulate real-world challenges. This fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Online Learning Platforms: Utilize digital tools such as Course Hero, StuDocu, Brainly AI, and TurboLearn AI to offer students a wealth of educational resources.
- Mindful Study Habits: Encourage students to experiment with different study environments to boost productivity and find a balance with their homework.
Strategies to Encourage Deeper Learning
- Personalized Learning Paths: Allow students to delve deeper into topics that interest them, promoting more meaningful engagement and knowledge retention.
- Collaborative Learning: Organize group projects and discussions that require students to collaborate, share ideas,and work together to expand their understanding of complex concepts.
- Real-World Applications: Link classroom learning with real-world examples to make the learning process more engaging and relevant for students.
- Ongoing Feedback and Reflection: Regularly offer constructive feedback and encourage students to reflect on their learning, enabling them to adapt their approach as needed and cultivate a growth mindset.
By adopting alternative homework methods and strategies, the education system can help reduce stress, foster deeper learning, and better support students' success.
- Students in Cebu City are overwhelmed with homework, leading to questions about its effectiveness in aiding learning.
- Keira James De Los Reyes, a Grade 10 student, spends two to three hours on homework but finds it non-stressful, while Nikki D. Gerundio, a Grade 11 student, accepts that it helps understanding despite feeling tedious.
- James Mark C. Dumoran, a Grade 12 student, suggests alternative assessment methods like quizzes and oral recitations to decrease homework while maintaining quality education.
- De Los Reyes and Gerundio propose reducing daily homework loads to manageable assignments that align with learning objectives, while Dumoran prefers tasks that are not overly complex.
- These student insights challenge traditional homework practices, suggesting that excessive daily homework can lead to pressure, disengagement, and potentially hinder comprehension.
- To encourage deeper learning and mental health, schools should adopt alternative homework methods such as project-based learning, personalized learning paths, collaborative learning, and real-world applications, while also promoting mindful study habits and ongoing feedback and reflection.
