what are the negative effects of homework on students

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Education scholar Denise Pope has found that too much homework has negative effects on student well-being and behavioral engagement. (Image credit: L.A. Cicero)

A Stanford researcher found that too much homework can negatively affect kids, especially their lives away from school, where family, friends and activities matter.

“Our findings on the effects of homework challenge the traditional assumption that homework is inherently good,” wrote Denise Pope , a senior lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Education and a co-author of a study published in the Journal of Experimental Education .

The researchers used survey data to examine perceptions about homework, student well-being and behavioral engagement in a sample of 4,317 students from 10 high-performing high schools in upper-middle-class California communities. Along with the survey data, Pope and her colleagues used open-ended answers to explore the students’ views on homework.

Median household income exceeded $90,000 in these communities, and 93 percent of the students went on to college, either two-year or four-year.

Students in these schools average about 3.1 hours of homework each night.

“The findings address how current homework practices in privileged, high-performing schools sustain students’ advantage in competitive climates yet hinder learning, full engagement and well-being,” Pope wrote.

Pope and her colleagues found that too much homework can diminish its effectiveness and even be counterproductive. They cite prior research indicating that homework benefits plateau at about two hours per night, and that 90 minutes to two and a half hours is optimal for high school.

Their study found that too much homework is associated with:

* Greater stress: 56 percent of the students considered homework a primary source of stress, according to the survey data. Forty-three percent viewed tests as a primary stressor, while 33 percent put the pressure to get good grades in that category. Less than 1 percent of the students said homework was not a stressor.

* Reductions in health: In their open-ended answers, many students said their homework load led to sleep deprivation and other health problems. The researchers asked students whether they experienced health issues such as headaches, exhaustion, sleep deprivation, weight loss and stomach problems.

* Less time for friends, family and extracurricular pursuits: Both the survey data and student responses indicate that spending too much time on homework meant that students were “not meeting their developmental needs or cultivating other critical life skills,” according to the researchers. Students were more likely to drop activities, not see friends or family, and not pursue hobbies they enjoy.

A balancing act

The results offer empirical evidence that many students struggle to find balance between homework, extracurricular activities and social time, the researchers said. Many students felt forced or obligated to choose homework over developing other talents or skills.

Also, there was no relationship between the time spent on homework and how much the student enjoyed it. The research quoted students as saying they often do homework they see as “pointless” or “mindless” in order to keep their grades up.

“This kind of busy work, by its very nature, discourages learning and instead promotes doing homework simply to get points,” Pope said.

She said the research calls into question the value of assigning large amounts of homework in high-performing schools. Homework should not be simply assigned as a routine practice, she said.

“Rather, any homework assigned should have a purpose and benefit, and it should be designed to cultivate learning and development,” wrote Pope.

High-performing paradox

In places where students attend high-performing schools, too much homework can reduce their time to foster skills in the area of personal responsibility, the researchers concluded. “Young people are spending more time alone,” they wrote, “which means less time for family and fewer opportunities to engage in their communities.”

Student perspectives

The researchers say that while their open-ended or “self-reporting” methodology to gauge student concerns about homework may have limitations – some might regard it as an opportunity for “typical adolescent complaining” – it was important to learn firsthand what the students believe.

The paper was co-authored by Mollie Galloway from Lewis and Clark College and Jerusha Conner from Villanova University.

Media Contacts

Denise Pope, Stanford Graduate School of Education: (650) 725-7412, [email protected] Clifton B. Parker, Stanford News Service: (650) 725-0224, [email protected]

Is homework a necessary evil?

After decades of debate, researchers are still sorting out the truth about homework’s pros and cons. One point they can agree on: Quality assignments matter.

By Kirsten Weir

March 2016, Vol 47, No. 3

Print version: page 36

• Schools and Classrooms

Homework battles have raged for decades. For as long as kids have been whining about doing their homework, parents and education reformers have complained that homework's benefits are dubious. Meanwhile many teachers argue that take-home lessons are key to helping students learn. Now, as schools are shifting to the new (and hotly debated) Common Core curriculum standards, educators, administrators and researchers are turning a fresh eye toward the question of homework's value.

But when it comes to deciphering the research literature on the subject, homework is anything but an open book.

The 10-minute rule

In many ways, homework seems like common sense. Spend more time practicing multiplication or studying Spanish vocabulary and you should get better at math or Spanish. But it may not be that simple.

Homework can indeed produce academic benefits, such as increased understanding and retention of the material, says Duke University social psychologist Harris Cooper, PhD, one of the nation's leading homework researchers. But not all students benefit. In a review of studies published from 1987 to 2003, Cooper and his colleagues found that homework was linked to better test scores in high school and, to a lesser degree, in middle school. Yet they found only faint evidence that homework provided academic benefit in elementary school ( Review of Educational Research , 2006).

Then again, test scores aren't everything. Homework proponents also cite the nonacademic advantages it might confer, such as the development of personal responsibility, good study habits and time-management skills. But as to hard evidence of those benefits, "the jury is still out," says Mollie Galloway, PhD, associate professor of educational leadership at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon. "I think there's a focus on assigning homework because [teachers] think it has these positive outcomes for study skills and habits. But we don't know for sure that's the case."

Even when homework is helpful, there can be too much of a good thing. "There is a limit to how much kids can benefit from home study," Cooper says. He agrees with an oft-cited rule of thumb that students should do no more than 10 minutes a night per grade level — from about 10 minutes in first grade up to a maximum of about two hours in high school. Both the National Education Association and National Parent Teacher Association support that limit.

Beyond that point, kids don't absorb much useful information, Cooper says. In fact, too much homework can do more harm than good. Researchers have cited drawbacks, including boredom and burnout toward academic material, less time for family and extracurricular activities, lack of sleep and increased stress.

In a recent study of Spanish students, Rubén Fernández-Alonso, PhD, and colleagues found that students who were regularly assigned math and science homework scored higher on standardized tests. But when kids reported having more than 90 to 100 minutes of homework per day, scores declined ( Journal of Educational Psychology , 2015).

"At all grade levels, doing other things after school can have positive effects," Cooper says. "To the extent that homework denies access to other leisure and community activities, it's not serving the child's best interest."

Children of all ages need down time in order to thrive, says Denise Pope, PhD, a professor of education at Stanford University and a co-founder of Challenge Success, a program that partners with secondary schools to implement policies that improve students' academic engagement and well-being.

"Little kids and big kids need unstructured time for play each day," she says. Certainly, time for physical activity is important for kids' health and well-being. But even time spent on social media can help give busy kids' brains a break, she says.

All over the map

But are teachers sticking to the 10-minute rule? Studies attempting to quantify time spent on homework are all over the map, in part because of wide variations in methodology, Pope says.

A 2014 report by the Brookings Institution examined the question of homework, comparing data from a variety of sources. That report cited findings from a 2012 survey of first-year college students in which 38.4 percent reported spending six hours or more per week on homework during their last year of high school. That was down from 49.5 percent in 1986 ( The Brown Center Report on American Education , 2014).

The Brookings report also explored survey data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which asked 9-, 13- and 17-year-old students how much homework they'd done the previous night. They found that between 1984 and 2012, there was a slight increase in homework for 9-year-olds, but homework amounts for 13- and 17-year-olds stayed roughly the same, or even decreased slightly.

Yet other evidence suggests that some kids might be taking home much more work than they can handle. Robert Pressman, PhD, and colleagues recently investigated the 10-minute rule among more than 1,100 students, and found that elementary-school kids were receiving up to three times as much homework as recommended. As homework load increased, so did family stress, the researchers found ( American Journal of Family Therapy , 2015).

Many high school students also seem to be exceeding the recommended amounts of homework. Pope and Galloway recently surveyed more than 4,300 students from 10 high-achieving high schools. Students reported bringing home an average of just over three hours of homework nightly ( Journal of Experiential Education , 2013).

On the positive side, students who spent more time on homework in that study did report being more behaviorally engaged in school — for instance, giving more effort and paying more attention in class, Galloway says. But they were not more invested in the homework itself. They also reported greater academic stress and less time to balance family, friends and extracurricular activities. They experienced more physical health problems as well, such as headaches, stomach troubles and sleep deprivation. "Three hours per night is too much," Galloway says.

In the high-achieving schools Pope and Galloway studied, more than 90 percent of the students go on to college. There's often intense pressure to succeed academically, from both parents and peers. On top of that, kids in these communities are often overloaded with extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs. "They're very busy," Pope says. "Some kids have up to 40 hours a week — a full-time job's worth — of extracurricular activities." And homework is yet one more commitment on top of all the others.

"Homework has perennially acted as a source of stress for students, so that piece of it is not new," Galloway says. "But especially in upper-middle-class communities, where the focus is on getting ahead, I think the pressure on students has been ratcheted up."

Yet homework can be a problem at the other end of the socioeconomic spectrum as well. Kids from wealthier homes are more likely to have resources such as computers, Internet connections, dedicated areas to do schoolwork and parents who tend to be more educated and more available to help them with tricky assignments. Kids from disadvantaged homes are more likely to work at afterschool jobs, or to be home without supervision in the evenings while their parents work multiple jobs, says Lea Theodore, PhD, a professor of school psychology at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. They are less likely to have computers or a quiet place to do homework in peace.

"Homework can highlight those inequities," she says.

Quantity vs. quality

One point researchers agree on is that for all students, homework quality matters. But too many kids are feeling a lack of engagement with their take-home assignments, many experts say. In Pope and Galloway's research, only 20 percent to 30 percent of students said they felt their homework was useful or meaningful.

"Students are assigned a lot of busywork. They're naming it as a primary stressor, but they don't feel it's supporting their learning," Galloway says.

"Homework that's busywork is not good for anyone," Cooper agrees. Still, he says, different subjects call for different kinds of assignments. "Things like vocabulary and spelling are learned through practice. Other kinds of courses require more integration of material and drawing on different skills."

But critics say those skills can be developed with many fewer hours of homework each week. Why assign 50 math problems, Pope asks, when 10 would be just as constructive? One Advanced Placement biology teacher she worked with through Challenge Success experimented with cutting his homework assignments by a third, and then by half. "Test scores didn't go down," she says. "You can have a rigorous course and not have a crazy homework load."

Still, changing the culture of homework won't be easy. Teachers-to-be get little instruction in homework during their training, Pope says. And despite some vocal parents arguing that kids bring home too much homework, many others get nervous if they think their child doesn't have enough. "Teachers feel pressured to give homework because parents expect it to come home," says Galloway. "When it doesn't, there's this idea that the school might not be doing its job."

Galloway argues teachers and school administrators need to set clear goals when it comes to homework — and parents and students should be in on the discussion, too. "It should be a broader conversation within the community, asking what's the purpose of homework? Why are we giving it? Who is it serving? Who is it not serving?"

Until schools and communities agree to take a hard look at those questions, those backpacks full of take-home assignments will probably keep stirring up more feelings than facts.

Further reading

• Cooper, H., Robinson, J. C., & Patall, E. A. (2006). Does homework improve academic achievement? A synthesis of research, 1987-2003. Review of Educational Research, 76 (1), 1–62. doi: 10.3102/00346543076001001
• Galloway, M., Connor, J., & Pope, D. (2013). Nonacademic effects of homework in privileged, high-performing high schools. The Journal of Experimental Education, 81 (4), 490–510. doi: 10.1080/00220973.2012.745469
• Pope, D., Brown, M., & Miles, S. (2015). Overloaded and underprepared: Strategies for stronger schools and healthy, successful kids . San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.

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Homework and Mental Health: Striking the Right Balance

In today’s fast-paced and competitive education landscape, students are often faced with overwhelming academic expectations that can significantly impact their mental health. The pressure to excel academically, coupled with the demands of homework, can lead to excessive stress, anxiety, and burnout. It is crucial to find the right balance between academic responsibilities and mental well-being to ensure that students thrive both academically and emotionally.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the research surrounding homework and its effects on students’ stress levels and mental health. We will explore the link between homework and stress, examine the impact of excessive homework on students’ well-being, and, for those seeking relief, offer practical strategies to manage homework effectively or find support to do my homework for me . These insights are intended to help students, parents, and educators strike a balance that promotes both academic success and mental well-being.

The Link Between Homework and Stress

Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between homework and stress levels in students. One notable study conducted by Stanford lecturer Denise Pope found that students who reported spending more than two hours per night on homework experienced higher stress levels and physical health issues. This research highlighted the potential negative effects of excessive homework on students’ well-being.

Another study published in the Sleep Health Journal found that long hours of homework may be a risk factor for depression. This research suggests that reducing homework workload outside of class may benefit sleep quality and mental fitness. Additionally, a study presented by Frontiers in Psychology emphasized the significant health implications for high school students facing chronic stress, including emotional exhaustion and substance use.

These studies collectively indicate that excessive homework can contribute to increased stress levels among students, potentially leading to a range of negative psychological and physiological effects. It is crucial for educators and parents to be mindful of the workload they assign to students and prioritize their well-being.

The Impact of Homework on Mental Health and Well-being

Excessive homework can have far-reaching effects on students’ mental health and well-being. Understanding these effects is essential for developing strategies to mitigate the potential negative consequences. Let’s examine the psychological and physical effects of homework-induced stress on students:

Psychological Effects of Homework-Induced Stress

• Anxiety: The pressure to perform academically and meet homework expectations can lead to heightened levels of anxiety in students. Constant worry about completing assignments on time and achieving high grades can be overwhelming.
• Sleep Disturbances: Homework-related stress can disrupt students’ sleep patterns, leading to sleep anxiety or sleep deprivation. Lack of quality sleep negatively impacts cognitive function and emotional regulation.
• Reduced Motivation: Excessive homework demands can drain students’ motivation, causing them to feel fatigued and disengaged from their studies. Reduced motivation may lead to a lack of interest in learning, hindering overall academic performance.

Physical Effects of Homework-Induced Stress

• Impaired Immune Function: Prolonged stress from overwhelming homework loads can weaken the immune system, making students more susceptible to illnesses and infections.
• Disrupted Hormonal Balance: Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance and lead to various health issues.
• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Stress affects the gastrointestinal system, resulting in symptoms such as stomachaches, nausea, and other digestive problems.
• Cardiovascular Impact: The increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure associated with stress can strain the cardiovascular system, potentially increasing the risk of heart-related issues in the long run.
• Brain Impact: Prolonged exposure to stress hormones may impact the brain’s functioning, affecting memory, concentration, and cognitive abilities.

It is evident that excessive homework can have detrimental effects on students’ mental and physical well-being. Balancing academic responsibilities with self-care and mental health is crucial for fostering a healthy and productive learning environment.

The Benefits of Homework

While the potential negative effects of excessive homework cannot be ignored, it is essential to recognize that homework also offers several benefits that contribute to students’ academic growth and development. Some of these benefits include:

• Development of Time Management Skills: Completing homework within specified deadlines encourages students to manage their time efficiently. This skill extends beyond academics and becomes essential in various aspects of life.
• Preparation for Future Challenges: Homework helps prepare students for future academic challenges and responsibilities. It fosters a sense of discipline and responsibility, qualities crucial for success in higher education and professional life.
• Enhanced Problem-Solving Abilities: Homework often presents students with challenging problems to solve. Tackling these problems independently nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

While acknowledging these benefits, it is crucial to strike a balance between assigning meaningful homework and ensuring students’ overall well-being.

Striking the Right Balance: Strategies for Students, Parents, and Educators

Finding a balance between academic responsibilities and mental well-being is crucial for students’ overall success and happiness. Here are some practical strategies that students, parents, and educators can implement to strike the right balance:

For Students:

Effective Time Management: Create a structured study schedule that allocates sufficient time for homework, breaks, and other activities. Prioritize tasks and set realistic goals to prevent last-minute rushes and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

Break Tasks into Smaller Chunks: Large assignments can be daunting and contribute to stress. Break them into smaller, manageable parts. This approach makes the workload seem less intimidating and provides a sense of accomplishment as each section is completed.

Designate a Distraction-Free Zone: Establish a designated study area that is free from distractions like smartphones, television, or social media. This setting improves focus and productivity, reducing the time needed to complete homework.

Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise is known to reduce stress and enhance mood. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, whether it’s going for a walk, playing a sport, or practicing yoga.

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in mindfulness practices such as deep breathing exercises or meditation to alleviate stress and improve concentration. Taking short breaks to relax and clear the mind enhances overall well-being and cognitive performance.

Seek Support: Reach out to teachers, parents, or school counselors when feeling overwhelmed or in need of assistance. Establish an open and supportive environment where you feel comfortable expressing concerns and seeking help.

For Parents:

Foster Open Communication: Create an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their academic challenges and stressors. Encourage open communication about workload and provide support and guidance when needed.

Set Realistic Expectations: Recognize that each child is unique and has different capacities for handling academic pressures. Set realistic expectations for homework completion, considering their individual needs and responsibilities.

Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote a balanced lifestyle that includes sufficient sleep, physical activity, and relaxation. Encourage breaks and downtime to prevent burnout.

Collaborate with Educators: Maintain open lines of communication with teachers to stay informed about the workload and address any concerns regarding excessive homework. Advocate for a balanced approach to homework.

For Educators:

Assign Purposeful Homework: Ensure that homework assignments are purposeful, relevant, and targeted towards specific learning objectives. Emphasize quality over quantity and avoid assigning excessive workloads.

Provide Clear Instructions: Clearly communicate assignment expectations and deadlines to students. This clarity helps students plan their time effectively and reduces stress related to uncertainty.

Offer Support and Resources: Provide students with resources and support systems, such as study guides, online materials, or access to tutoring, to help them navigate their homework effectively.

Encourage Self-Care: Educate students about the importance of self-care and stress management. Incorporate discussions and activities related to mental health and well-being into the curriculum.

By implementing these strategies, students, parents, and educators can work collaboratively to strike a balance between academic responsibilities and mental well-being, fostering a positive learning environment that promotes both academic success and emotional well-being.

Finding the right balance between homework and mental health is crucial for students’ overall well-being and academic success. Excessive homework can lead to increased stress levels, negatively impacting students’ mental and physical health. By understanding the potential effects of homework-induced stress, implementing practical strategies, and fostering open communication between students, parents, and educators, we can create a supportive learning environment that prioritizes both academic growth and mental well-being. Let’s work together to ensure that students thrive academically and emotionally.

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Homework Battles: When Parent Help Negatively Affects Students

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Homework has become as much work for parents as it is for kids in many families when parents slog through assignments together with their kids every night. They see it as part of their parental duty to help their children. But when it comes to assisting kids with challenging subjects or an unfamiliar way of learning -- like the new Common Core math standards and homework that requires approaches very different from those learned in previous generations -- frustration that builds from struggling over the homework can foster anxiety.

A study conducted by researchers at the Human Performance Lab at the University of Chicago has found that if parents have high levels of math anxiety and give a lot of homework help (more than two to three times a week), they can have a negative impact on their child’s math achievement and increase their child’s math anxiety.

“This is one of the first studies to look at how math anxiety is produced,” said Erin Maloney, lead author on the study. Researchers have already established that a teacher’s math anxiety negatively affects student performance over the course of the year and leads female students to endorse negative stereotypes about girls’ math abilities. For this study, Maloney and her co-authors Gerardo Ramirez, Elizabeth A. Gunderson, Susan C. Levine and Sian L. Beilock statistically controlled for teachers' math anxiety and content knowledge, along with the socioeconomic status of the children.

“Kids as young as first grade really do report high anxiety about math and that anxiety is linked to their math achievement,” Maloney said. The study found a caregiver’s math anxiety negatively impacted both male and female children equally. And, the effects were bigger the more anxious a parent was and the more often they helped with homework. While not a study of female caregivers in particular, 89 percent of primary caregivers in this study were women.

The study was done with a large sample size of children in first and second grade that was designed to be representative of the Illinois state population. Students in the study completed tests measuring math, reading and math anxiety in the first 12 weeks of school. They were tested again in the last 8 weeks of school. Parents were given a 25-question survey that asked questions about how they feel in various real-world situations requiring math, like tipping at a restaurant.

“When parents are really high in math anxiety, their children, both boys and girls, learn less math over the school year and become more anxious over the school year,” Maloney said, but only in cases where the primary care provider helped with homework frequently.

The effects of math anxiety on achievement are well documented. Stanford researchers did brain scans of children solving math problems. In math-anxious children, the part of the brain tasked with handling negative emotions was overactive, whereas the math problem solving parts of the brain were diminished. The children’s fear was interfering with their ability to use problem solving skills.

Sian Beilock and her colleagues at the Human Performance Lab posited that math anxiety was taking up students’ working memory, impeding their ability to succeed on tests. They asked students to write about their math anxiety before a test . By offloading those negative emotions first, the intervention has produced encouraging results in the classroom.

But what are parents to do with this new information?

“It’s really not enough for us as educators to just say ‘get involved,’” Maloney said. She believes researchers and educators need to develop better tools for parents to understand the math their children are working on so they can help appropriately. Unfamiliar teaching methods heighten the math anxiety that’s already found in many American adults.

Is Homework Good Or Bad For Students? Top 15 Reasons

Is homework good or bad for Students? Let’s discuss this.

There’s a good and bad side to homework. The positive side is that it can be a valuable tool for reinforcing learning and an opportunity for students to prioritize their lives. 

But it can also be a lot of work and create friction between kids and parents.

There needs to be more debate about the effectiveness of homework. 

The arguments are divided into two main categories: the Case Against Homework and the Homework Myth. 

One side of the argument argues that homework is a waste of time and a distraction from other activities.

On the other hand, another argument argues that it is beneficial.

This blog will discuss both the positive and negative aspects of doing homework to reveal the answer is homework good or bad for students. Keep reading this blog.

Good Side: Is Homework Good Or Bad For Students

Table of Contents

1. It Reinforces Learning

Homework is a valuable exercise, mainly when it is used as a tool to reinforce learning. It has been proven that students perform better when assigned homework that involves the preparation, application, and comprehension of a given concept. This activity can help develop skills, promote self-discipline, and establish communication between parents and children.

Besides providing practice for concepts, lessons, and activities learned in school, it also helps build good study habits. If students spend less time on homework, it can help their academic performance and overall health.

Homework is also an opportunity for parents to get involved with their child’s education. Parents can help their kids prepare for tests by helping them practice writing essays and giving them fun activities.

2. It Helps Students Prioritize

Using homework to prioritize your studies is a proven time-saving and motivational technique. It may be one of the most powerful ways to boost your school performance and happiness. The more tasks you complete, the more apt your teachers will be to give you the A’s you deserve. Luckily, a little homework will help your grades improve and help you learn to be more independent. This is something that will serve you well throughout your adolescence.

Homework is also an excellent way to learn to be a better time manager. Not only does homework allow you to get more done in less time, but it can also help you figure out your strengths and weaknesses. You can better prioritize your time by figuring out your strengths and weaknesses.

3. Increasing The Digital Divide is Possible

The Digital divide is a term used to describe the gap between those who have access to high-speed internet and those who do not. This gap is particularly pronounced among students from low-income families and minority groups.

A lack of high-speed home broadband can lead to academic problems and reduce student opportunities among school-age children. In addition, it may hurt job prospects.

Homework is challenging for students who need more reliable access to the internet. Not only do they have to complete their assignments, but they also have to find a way to learn about their interests.

A study published by Michigan State University found that eighth graders with no internet at home scored lower on national exams than those with internet at home. Those with only one device, such as a cell phone, are even more vulnerable.

4. It Can Be a Full-Time Job

A full-time student can expect to spend about 5-8 hours a day in the classroom, and the odds are that you’ll spend most of your waking hours doing it. As a result, the time you spend at home or on the commute to and from school is a precious commodity. You should prioritize your homework and other activities to make the most of this limited resource. On the other hand, if you do, you might be surprised by the results. Homework can be a drag, but you can get more done with a little forward-thinking in less time. The best part is that you’ll be happy you did!

One of the first things you should do is read up on what your teacher or parents are talking about. This will help you better comprehend what they are saying and what they expect of you. You’ll also be able to gauge what to expect from your students.

5. Assignment Tasks Help Students Plan How To Complete It On Time

A good teacher can help you get the most out of your study period, but you must put in the effort to see the rewards. Luckily, there are several sites and applications to help you get the most out of your studies. Some teachers have even gone as far as to give students extra credit for putting in the extra effort. The best part is you can be something other than a math whiz to take advantage of these resources. And you won’t even have to leave your home or office!

On the other hand, if you have pending homework/assignments then, you can take our homework/assignments help .

6. Homework Is a Way To Identify Children Who May Benefit From More Complex Learning Tasks

Homework is a powerful tool for both teachers and parents. It provides students with practice in organizational and critical thinking skills while also reinforcing positive study habits.

Research has found that high-quality homework promotes self-efficacy, which increases effort and reduces feelings of helplessness. Modeling how to complete complex tasks without assistance successfully teaches students to take responsibility for their learning.

In addition, high-quality homework supports students’ development of personal assets. For instance, it gives them clear directions, suggested time frames, and opportunities to practice critical thinking and self-regulation skills.

7. Homework Is a Way To Keep The Focus on Studies

If you’ve ever had to do homework, then you’re familiar with the pain that comes with spending hours upon hours sifting through the minutiae of your education. However, there are some things you can do to make the experience more manageable. Keeping the right kind of light on the task will go a long way toward keeping your sanity. Putting a timer to work can help you achieve a more manageable workload.

The right music can also keep you on the right track. To get the most out of the experience, find a study space that enables you to do your best work.

8. Homework Is a Way To Bridge The Gap Between Learning At School and At Home

Homework is an integral part of a student’s academic career. It provides a way for students to bridge the gap between home learning and classroom instruction. If homework is adequately managed, it can be a helpful assessment tool and help students develop skills and attitudes that will help them in their later lives.

Students have a variety of reasons for failing to do their homework. They may need access to technology, or they may need help to complete it. Parents are often tempted to help with their child’s homework to alleviate the burden. However, doing so can hinder their progress in school.

9. Homework Can Increase a Learner’s Responsibility

Doing homework is an essential life skill. It teaches children to use time and resources wisely and helps develop their self-regulation skills.

Some parents worry that too much homework can be stressful for their children. However, research has shown that it can also have a positive impact on student achievement.

Some studies have found that students who do homework earn higher test scores. These studies have also found that homework may improve a student’s self-efficacy. This increases a student’s ability to stay focused and work efficiently.

Other studies have found that homework can help increase students’ self-reflective skills and teach them to set goals. These skills will help them in school and their future careers.

Bad Side: Is Homework Good Or Bad For Students

10. it can create friction between children and their parents.

Homework is a significant source of stress for many students. However, it interferes with family life and social activities.

However, homework also provides educational benefits. Elementary and high school students are encouraged to do homework. Parents can help with the process.

The amount of homework students receive is determined by the needs of each child. Some students need more time than others. For example, students with learning disabilities may require an evaluation to determine their level of attention.

The problem with homework is that it can be very time-consuming. Students and parents should develop a plan to make it more manageable.

In addition, homework can create tension between parents and schools. Many parents will not allow their children to have homework on Wednesday nights or Sundays.

11. Homework Can Eat Into The Amount of Rest Kids Get Each Night

Homework is often seen as a good thing, but a hefty dose can adversely affect a student’s physical and mental health. Too much homework is associated with increased sleep deficits and other physical ailments, such as digestive issues and headaches. It’s also a significant time sink that can detract from family time.

The number of hours a high schooler spends on homework is rising. According to the survey, adolescents should get nine to nine hours of sleep per night. Some kids only get six hours or less. If a kid isn’t getting enough sleep, he will start acting out, which is a recipe for disaster.

12. Homework Can Be a Burden For Teachers

Homework is a task given to students by their teachers. In the past, homework has been regarded as a means to develop discipline, boost academic performance, and provide extra learning opportunities. However, in recent years, educators and policymakers are starting to question the efficacy of homework.

Getting homework done is daunting for many students, including young children, who have short attention spans. Some of these kids may need more resources to complete their assignments, such as a laptop or a computer with internet access.

Not only is homework a time drain, but it can also interfere with a child’s social development. Students who struggle with their school work, such as those with learning disabilities, often benefit from getting a little help with their assignments.

13. It Can Be a Waste of Time and Energy

There needs to be more debate over whether doing homework wastes time and energy. While some students and parents may view the process negatively, others see it as an opportunity to help their kids become better learners. However, if there’s too much of it, it can become a source of stress .

One of the most valuable tasks a parent can perform for their kid is setting up a study space. This includes putting together a checklist of items the child can check off as they finish their assignments. It also includes providing snacks, so the kids are healthy when they sit down to do their homework.

Another clever little thing to do is check out the best online grading sites and assess homework. 

14. It Can Affect Students’ Mental and Physical Health

Doing homework can affect students’ mental and physical health in several ways. For example, it takes away time they can spend with their family and friends, leaves them feeling isolated, and can cause them to miss essential milestones in their childhood. It can also be a source of anxiety, leaving them with a negative impression of the school.

High school students who spend too much time on their homework report a number of negative consequences, such as sleep deprivation, depression, and headaches. In addition, they may be more susceptible to weight loss, digestive problems, and other health issues.

A Stanford University study found that students who are weighed down by homework are at a higher risk of physical and mental health problems. Researchers surveyed 4,317 students in 10 high-performing schools in California. Students reported various symptoms, including sleep deprivation, exhaustion, headaches, stomach problems, and lack of social involvement.

15. It Can Be a Distraction

Doing homework can be a daunting task, especially in this age of digital distractions. Whether it is social media or a barking dog, a distraction will likely catch you off guard.

Due to this students fails to complete their homework on time and this makes them anxious on the next day in school.

In conclusion, it is essential to consider homework’s pros and cons before deciding. The pros of completing homework include learning new information, improving mental concentration, and increasing work efficiency. 

However, there are also cons to homework that can affect students’ grades and potential jobs. So, before deciding whether or not to do it, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. What do you think about the homework?

Q1. Does homework actually help?

According to many studies, homework improves student achievement in terms of many things like improved grades, test results, and the likelihood of attending college.

Q2. How does homework affect students?

Homework can have an impact on students’ physical and mental health. On the other hand, according to a Stanford University study, homework was the primary source of stress for 56% of students. Too much homework can lead to sleep deprivation, headaches, stress, exhaustion, and weight loss.

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The Negative Effects of Homework: Why Homework Is Bad for Students’ Well-being

Ah, the relentless grind of homework — it’s like a dark cloud on a sunny day for us geeky enthusiasts. As someone who’s braved the front lines alongside you, I’ve taken more than a few hits from this  academic onslaught .

And guess what? It turns out we’re not just imagining our submerged state; a  study back in 2015  laid it bare, showing that kids are bogged down with  triple the homework  they really need.

Indeed, the burden of homework is so overwhelming that many students turn to online solutions. Today, there are numerous websites that can essentially “do the homework for you .”

So, I buckled down and delved into some serious research to unearth insights that might just throw us a lifeline here. In this post, we’ll unravel some startling truths about how these piled-up papers could be undercutting our  mental agility  and  happiness .

Brace yourselves—it’s time to uncover some compelling fodder for thought!

Key Takeaways

Homework overload can lead to  health problems such as stress and lack of sleep , making kids feel tired and worried all the time., too much homework might not help grades much. it could even  make students lose interest  in schoolwork and  cause them to burn out ., students from families without a lot of money or good internet have a harder time with homework, putting them at an  unfair disadvantage ., there is a  big debate  about whether schools should give  less homework  so that learning can be  more fun  and  less stressful for everyone ., table of contents, the burden of excessive homework.

Let’s dive straight into the less-talked-about backpack breaker, excessive homework – a real nose-to-the-grindstone issue. Picture this: It’s midnight, and students are still up, poring over textbooks and worksheets.

Their eyes aren’t betraying just sleep deprivation; they’re also windows to soaring stress levels that could make even a zen master fidgety. We’ve got teens chugging coffee like water, trying to meet deadlines for assignments that might as well be inscribed on ancient tablets for all the good they do in our connected world.

The impact? Health takes a nosedive faster than you can say “pop quiz,” with academic burnout waiting in the wings – an unwelcome guest no one wants at their study party.

Impact on Student Health and Stress Levels

Homework isn’t just a minor nuisance; it’s like a boss-level villain in my quest for health and chill vibes. Picture this: I’m buried under a mountain of worksheets, my sleep tank is empty, and stress is doing the tango on my  well-being .

High school students who spend endless hours tackling homework don’t just lose game time; they’re also signing up for  serious health issues —stress, anxiety, you name it.

These aren’t just random grumbles from my geeky corner. Studies are backing me up here. For example, over at New York University, researchers found that students get hit with  chronic stress and emotional exhaustion  because of too much homework.

It’s no myth; these side quests we call assignments can lead to some pretty rough stuff like  depression or worse physical ailments . And let me tell you, when your mental health bar is low, even the simplest tasks feel like  epic battles .

Detrimental Effects on Sleep and Rest

Now, let’s talk about catching those Zs—or rather, the lack of them, thanks to homework. You see, piling on the assignments does a number on our shut-eye schedule. It’s no secret that we geeks need proper sleep to keep our brains sharp for all our geeky hobbies .

But with only  8% of high school nerds getting the recommended nine hours of dream time , it’s clear there’s a glitch in the system.

Let me paint you a picture: It’s late at night; I’m staring at a pile of textbooks that make Mount Everest look like an anthill. My eyelids are heavy, but my brain is racing with equations and essay prompts.

Sound familiar? Yeah, we’re in this together— losing precious sleep over homework  that turns us into stressed-out zombies by daybreak. And when  23% of teens get just six hours or less —it’s not just about being sleepy; it feels like running on empty while trying to ace those advanced placement exams after pulling an all-nighter fueled by Spotify playlists and cold pizza.

The Counterproductive Nature of Homework

As a self-proclaimed geek who’s faced the wrath of many homework assignments, I’ve got to spill some tea on this: Homework might be more villainous than we thought. We’re digging into our pile of studies and realizing that piling on the assignments doesn’t always level up our academic game.

Turns out, for all its claims to fame, homework can have us running in circles like hamsters rather than journeying forward in our intellectual quests. It’s time to question whether those late-night problem sets are really unlocking our potential or just locking us into academic fatigue. In an era where computer proficiency is increasingly valuable, the exhaustion and disillusionment brought on by excessive homework could, unfortunately, result in someone developing a dislike for programming — a subject that requires a lot of patience, practice, and passion.

As it happens, mounting evidence suggests that too much homework may actually hinder learning, leading students down a path of burnout and disinterest faster than you can say “pop quiz.” Let’s crack open the books and find out why less might indeed be more when it comes to after-school assignments.

Lack of Evidence Supporting Academic Benefits

I’ve got to spill some real tea about homework and grades. You might think crushing stacks of homework would turn us into brainy powerhouses, right? Get this: the big brains in research found no solid link that piles of homework beef up our report cards.

In fact, there’s a sweet spot where just enough practice nails it – the  National Education Association  pegs it at “ 10 minutes per grade level “. A study even called out that  more than two hours of nightly homework  might just  backfire for high school students .

Let me tell you, when I heard “more isn’t always better,” my jaw hit the floor. It turns out we can spend less time stressing over textbooks and still ace those pesky standardized tests without overloading on study habits.

This talk brings us to how too much homework flips our world upside down and snuffs out any urge to learn – but more on  burnout in a sec .

How Overload Leads to Burnout and Disengagement

Having too much homework can make students feel  burned out . Imagine trying to juggle a full-time job, squeeze in hobbies, and still save the world in your favorite video game – tough, right? Now, picture this every day with heaps of schoolwork on top.

It’s like running a marathon with no finish line in sight; eventually, you’d want to throw in the towel. Studies show that high school students often spend more than two hours on homework each night.

That’s more than what experts say is helpful for learning and keeping  stress levels  down.

This crazy amount of work doesn’t just make kids tired; it makes them lose interest in school, too. Feeling overwhelmed by assignments leads to not caring as much about grades or classes anymore.

Add to that  emotional exhaustion  and even  health problems  found by New York University researchers — yikes! The effects are worse than forgetting your phone charger at a friend’s house – seriously demotivating stuff here! Without some free time for nerdy hobbies or hanging out with friends, life just becomes all about due dates and studying until you’re sleep-deprived and lonely.

Moving on from the doom and gloom of  homework overload,  now let’s take a peek into how all this chaos messes up family time.

Homework and the Family Dynamic

Homework isn’t just a solo mission for students; it’s like an uninvited guest at a family dinner, stirring up tension and gobbling up precious time that could be spent on family bonding or kids chasing their own adventures outside of the algebra jungle.

Stress Spillover into Family Life

Listen up, fellow geeks, I’ve got some intel on the homework front that’s sure to get your circuits buzzing. You know those epic battles at home over algebra problems and history essays? Turns out, they’re not just ruining your night—they’re throwing a wrench in the whole family dynamic.

Data shows a whopping  200 percent increase in family fights about homework  when parents don’t hold a college degree. That’s like adding fuel to an already blazing fire.

Homework doesn’t just eat up my time for leveling up in my favorite video games; it gobbles down precious hours I could spend with my folks or kicking back. It’s no laughing matter when you have to choose between nailing that next coding project and having a laugh with your little sister before bedtime.

The  struggle is real ! Think of all those  missed opportunities to build social connections  or share a joke because there’s yet another essay looming over you. If this keeps up, we might just need homework help to save our family time from turning into a pixelated memory!

The Struggle for Balance with Family and Recreation Time

Homework isn’t just making dinner time a battlefield. It’s also munching away at the  precious hours  we could spend playing video games or shooting some hoops. Picture this: you’re finally done with your mountain of homework, but there’s no time left to chill with your family or catch that  epic sunset game  at the park.

And let’s talk about  weekends and holidays —supposed breaks from schoolwork turned into small windows for even bigger projects and assignments. It’s like we’re on a treadmill set way too high; our legs are moving, but  fun and relaxation  are moving in the opposite direction.

Sure, I get it – balance is key. But when there’s so much homework, do you start dreaming in algebra? Something’s gotta give!

The Equity Issue in Homework Assignments

Homework doesn’t play fair. Shackled by the heavy weight of worksheets and projects, kids from low-income households often stand on an uneven playing field. They wrestle with hurdles like limited access to technology or a peaceful study spot, widening the  academic achievement gap  further.

We’re not just juggling fractions and history dates here; we’re tossing in social isolation and anxiety into the mix for these students. Homework’s supposed to be a tool, not a barrier — it’s time for education to power-level everyone, not just those with the cheat codes.

Disadvantages for Underprivileged Students

Homework piles up, and it hits  underprivileged students  hard. Think about it – these kids often get more assignments than I’d ever dream of, and that’s just not fair. It’s like a  mountain of stress  we dump on them when they’re already dealing with lots of  tough stuff at home .

Their days turn into this wild juggle between school work and life’s challenges, which isn’t cool for anyone’s health or happiness.

Now let’s talk tech—or the lack of it—because some homes don’t even have fast internet. Picture trying to finish an online assignment when your connection crawls slower than a lazy sloth! Millions face this  digital divide  every day, making homework a hurdle rather than a help.

And let’s not forget how all this  extra work messes with family time —that’s supposed to be for chilling out together, not freaking out over fractions!

The Digital Divide and Homework Accessibility

I’ve got to tell you the whole homework scene hits some kids way harder than others. We’re talking about a big gap where some students can get online anytime to do their work, and others might as well be trying to write essays with a feather and ink.

This  digital divide  is making things really tough for kids without  good internet or gadgets at home .

Let’s face it: we live in an age where you need Wi-Fi like you need air to breathe, especially for  school stuff . But not every family can afford  high-speed internet or the latest computer .

This means that when teachers dish out assignments assuming everyone’s plugged in, they  unintentionally sideline  those who aren’t wired up. It feels like telling someone without running shoes to win a race—it just doesn’t add up! Now, let’s switch gears and talk about how all this  stress from homework  splashes over into  family time .

Rethinking Homework’s Role in Education

As the world of education evolves, there’s a growing movement advocating for a  no-homework policy . Educators and parents alike are starting to question whether those after-hours assignments really reinforce learning or just add to the pile of stress nuggets weighing down our backpacks—and our spirits.

Alternative methods that spark curiosity and creativity are stepping into the spotlight, hinting at a future where learning doesn’t stop when the school bell rings but doesn’t require a three-hour slog through textbooks either.

It’s about time we do more than scratch our heads over this; let’s lean in and reimagine homework’s part in shaping brainy, balanced learners.

The Movement Towards a No-Homework Policy

Let me tell you about a cool trend that’s picking up in schools: the no-homework policy. Yep, you heard it right – some schools are saying “see ya later” to homework. Why? Because they get that kids need time to relax, play video games ( which totally make you smarter ), and hang out with their families.

It’s all about keeping  stress levels down  and  happiness up .

The big guys like the National Education Association and National PTA are on board, too. They’re pushing for just 10 minutes of homework per grade level. Imagine having more time to work on your kickflip or dive into making your own game mod instead of sweating over algebra problems! Now, that’s a world where we can balance learning awesome stuff at school with living our best life outside of it.

Alternative Approaches to Reinforce Learning

I get it; homework can be a drag. But imagine leveling up your brain skills without the extra worksheets! Some smart folks believe that learning gets better when it’s fun and part of our daily life.

Schools could mix things up by using  cool projects  or getting us to solve  real-world problems .

Now, here’s a neat trick: playing video games can make you smarter. No kidding! They help with problem-solving and can boost your social skills when you team up with pals online. Plus, tossing out too much homework means more time for physical activity, which fights off obesity and keeps our bodies healthy.

It’s like hitting two birds with one stone: we’d stay sharp for school and be fit as fiddles!

Rethinking the Purpose and Impact of Homework

Alright, let’s sum it up. Homework can be a real pain, right? It often  brings more stress  than good grades. Kids need sleep and fun, too! Maybe we should think about how much homework we give out.

Wouldn’t it be cooler if  learning didn’t feel like a chore ? Let’s  make sure homework helps, not hurts !

FAQs About the Negative Effects of Homework

Can too much homework hurt kids’ health.

Yes, a lot of homework can lead to a lack of sleep, stress, and even physical health problems for students.

Why does homework make students feel bad?

Homework can make you feel worried or lonely because it takes away time from playing video games that might help you think better or doing workouts that are good for your body.

Does having homework affect how parents and kids work together?

Sometimes homework leads to less happy times with family because moms and dads have to be more like teachers, which isn’t always fun for either side.

Do teenagers need breaks from homework to do well in school?

Sure! When teenagers take breaks from studying and don’t wait until the last minute (procrastinate), they manage their time better and do better on tests at school.

Is it normal to not want to do homework all the time (procrastinate)?

Yes, many people wait before they start their work (procrastinate). But if this happens a lot, it might mean there’s too much homework, or it’s causing too much worry.

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON

November 28, 2023

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