November 16, 2022
Sabina Rodrigues, Mumbai
Homework is a boon as it helps children relearn what is taught in class. Children often forget what happens in class, so homework helps them. But when homework is excessive, it becomes a burden to children and parents, especially working parents. Also, the fear of bad remarks and scolding pressurises children, which makes them develop a hatred towards studies. Puzzles and other activities could be included as a part of homework so that children do not find it boring. The homework assigned should be limited and enhance children’s knowledge of current affairs.
Vineetha Raghu, Bengaluru
A person’s personality and outlook develop during childhood. Burdening children with monotonous homework and projects will make them averse to learning, which defeats the very purpose of education. In my opinion, there should be a ‘fun’ element in homework so that children experience joy in learning. Homework should go beyond books. Small home experiments based on classwork will enhance a child’s natural instinct to explore. Homework should be limited and students should look forward to doing it by themselves. A child’s independence in all aspects should be encouraged as independence builds confidence. The homework assigned should also encourage creativity, innovation and skill building and make children think outside the box.
T Kanmani Sathiyiarathan, Erode
According to me, homework is essential, but the quality of homework is more important than the quantity. Too much homework can lead to boredom. Sometimes when parents are busy with other commitments, it is difficult for them to assist children with their homework. The homework assigned to kids shouldn’t exceed 45 minutes to an hour. Also, it shouldn’t be repetitive. Assignments should be assigned only on certain days of the week so that children have time to pursue other interests and their lives are balanced. Homework should be application-based and should encourage children to think.
Preethi Premkumar, Salem
Children today are very creative, but they do not have the time to pursue their hobbies. Often, students receive excessive homework from school. Additionally, their parents enrol them in other classes, leaving them with no time to do what they wish. Often, homework gets repetitive, and children get bored doing it. It is important that children are aware of what is going on in the world. Teachers should focus on encouraging children to engage in research. Children could be made to read the newspaper and group discussions could be held in class. Different children have different interests, so teachers could come up with projects that enable children to be exposed to each other’s interests.
K Sakthi Saranya Devi, Erode
Homework in moderation is necessary for children as it promotes continuous learning. It helps them to learn independently and take on responsibility. It also helps them to know if they require more explanation of a particular concept or lesson. On the other hand, too much homework can affect the child’s outdoor activity and gives them no extra time to develop their hobbies. Teachers should refrain from giving excessive homework. Homework can be given to nurture a child’s creativity and thinking skills. It should be application-oriented rather than based on solving worksheets or written assignments. To make homework more enjoyable, it should be related to the child’s interest.
REFLECTION: The Difference Matters
Finland is said to have the best educational system in the world. Do some online reading and list any 3 points of difference between the Finnish and Indian educational systems.
