Should Younger Students Receive Homework?

‘Homework in primary school has an effect of around zero’, says Professor John Hattie.

The debate surrounding home learning for younger students continues to spark discussion among educators, parents, and researchers. John Hattie, a renowned educational researcher known for his work on visible learning, has examined the impact of homework on student achievement. His meta-analyses suggest that the overall effect size of home learning on academic achievement is relatively low. While some studies show positive effects under specific conditions, others indicate no significant benefits, and some even suggest negative outcomes (Kohn, 2006; Trautwein & Koller, 2003).One of the key arguments against home learning is that it may place undue pressure on young children, reducing their time for play, family interactions, and rest. Play is essential for cognitive and emotional development, and excessive homework can sometimes lead to stress and burnout. On the other hand, proponents argue that well-structured homework can reinforce classroom learning, develop time-management skills, and foster a sense of responsibility.

NAS Dubai’s Home Learning Research

In 2021, Michael Connor, former Deputy Head of Primary, and I conducted a research project at NAS Dubai to understand the community’s perspectives on home learning. The results revealed diverse opinions among parents, students, and teachers.

These findings highlight that while students and teachers largely support home learning, parental opinions are more divided. Many parents expressed concerns about the time commitments required and the potential for homework to disrupt family life. Conversely, teachers noted that home learning can reinforce classroom teaching and help students develop independent study habits.

Is Optional Home Learning the Best Approach?

The question of whether home learning should be compulsory for primary-aged children is complex, depending on educational goals, developmental needs, and individual preferences. Based on our research and community feedback, NAS Dubai introduced an optional home learning policy for students from Nursery to Year 5. This approach aims to balance academic reinforcement with student well-being.

Benefits of Optional Home Learning

• Reinforcement of Learning: Tasks that revisit previously learned material help students practise, consolidate, and apply their knowledge.
• Self-Assessment: Independent practice allows students to assess their understanding and build confidence.
• Parental Involvement: Optional tasks give parents the flexibility to support their child’s learning without added pressure.

Moreover, optional home learning provides an opportunity for students to pursue their interests beyond the classroom. Activities such as reading for pleasure, engaging in creative projects, and exploring personal hobbies contribute to holistic development. Many parents appreciate the flexibility this approach offers, allowing them to support their child's learning journey in a way that suits their family's lifestyle.

The Importance of Reading

One aspect of home learning that remains compulsory at NAS Dubai is daily reading. Research shows that reading for just 20 minutes a day offers numerous benefits, including:

• Expanding knowledge of the world

• Enhancing academic performance

• Unleashing creative potential

Reading also plays a crucial role in developing vocabulary, comprehension skills, and critical thinking. Encouraging children to read a variety of genres—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and biographies—helps them discover new perspectives and fuels their curiosity. At NAS Dubai, we strive to cultivate a culture of reading, recognising that a love of books can enrich a child's life both academically and personally.

What’s Next for Home Learning at NAS Dubai?

As the home learning debate continues, we plan to revisit this topic with our NAS community next year. Through further research and collaboration, we aim to refine our approach and ensure that home learning supports both academic success and student well-being.
Looking ahead, we are exploring ways to enhance the quality and variety of optional home learning tasks. This includes incorporating digital resources, interactive assignments, and cross-curricular projects that encourage creativity and critical thinking. We are also considering how to provide additional guidance and resources for parents who wish to support their child's learning at home.
Have we found the perfect balance? This is a question we look forward to exploring with our community in the future. By continuing to listen to the voices of our students, parents, and teachers, we aim to create a home learning policy that meets the diverse needs of our school community.