How does homework benefit your child?  As a parent, what is your role in homework?  Read on to know the benefits of homework.

By definition, homework constitutes the out-of-class activities that the teachers assign to students. These activities are an extension to schoolwork. Homework can include practice assignments that emphasize  newly acquired skills . It can be in the form of preparation assignments to make students ready for class activities. Projects that have to be worked on in parallel with schoolwork also form a part of homework. This project work may continue throughout the term or the entire academic year. In these activities students apply their academic skills to create a piece of work through research.

Benefits of Homework
Homework builds up an initiative in students. They initiate study. Teachers get the schoolwork done from students whereas students initiate doing homework. There is a sense of responsibility associated with completing their homework. Children feel responsible for finishing homework and accomplished when they do it.

Another benefit of homework is that students develop time management. They start allotting their time to study and play thus learning to complete their scheduled tasks in the time they have. Moreover, they learn to do things on their own. They manage their time and complete their work independently. Homework encourages self-discipline in students.

Homework helps the children learn with interest. It builds a confidence in their minds. Teachers give comments on the work they do. Teachers’ positive remarks boost the children to learn. Students learn to follow instructions and complete their assignments successfully. They have to explore on topics, refer research material, and read about related topics in order to do their home assignments.

By doing the homework, children learn to cope up with their school activities. They get an opportunity to apply their skills and enhance them. Homework gives students a chance to amend their mistakes and improve on their weaknesses. Home assignments provide children with a platform to express and exhibit their skills.

Homework that gradually increases every year enhances academic achievement. Students score better on class tests. Homework helps in the development of an attitude to explore and learn. It thus improves their academic results. Homework definitely gives students the practice of whatever they learn in school and practice makes them perfect!

Obviously it is the amount of homework that governs its benefits. Homework should not become a punishment. Studies have brought out certain rules regarding the amount of homework to be given to students of particular ages. Homework manifests its benefits only if it is given in right amounts and taken in the right spirit. It is not good to burden children with home assignments and expect them to do well in studies. Homework should be proportionate to their age and mental ability.

The motivation offered by homework should be accompanied by parent involvement. Some say that homework serves as a link between the school and home. Parents must strengthen this link by supporting their children in their home assignments. Parents must take interest in the homework given to their children. They must help their kids do their homework and be concerned about their kids’ school activities, thereby promoting education.

I believe in the benefits of homework. But according to me, homework in the form of projects is more helpful than practice assignments. Students should be encouraged to act creatively. Project on a topic outside school curriculum leads students to investigate varied subjects. It encourages general reading. Studies do not remain monotonous. Children think, research and innovate. This results in an added advantage of homework that studies do not remain confined to textbooks. Children understand that education is much more than it seems to be. This realization convinces them of the benefits of homework as well!

 By Manali Oak
Published: 6/6/2008

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