Homework is a burden most students and parents wish could be eliminated. The assignments take up most of the time that a student should be relaxing or engaging in a creative pursuit. According to experts, students should use professional pay to do homework services to give them more time to focus on personal projects and creativity.
However, it appears that some countries have found a way of dealing with the excessive homework. They have reduced the amount of homework or structured it in a way that is not disruptive. Still, these countries have some of the most successful education systems and a vibrant economy. Here are examples and why these countries are more competitive.
1.Japan
Japan is a fast-rising technology and commerce giant, thanks to its education system. Students are taught to look for answers instead of gobbling what the teacher has offered. They begin using the internet as a learning tool from an early age.
The role of a teacher in a Japanese school is to guide the learners where to find answers. Homework only occupies 3.8 hours in a week. Most of the time is spent developing real-life skills that would transform the life of a student. Once the students are equipped with the art of curiosity and self-learning, they can find any solutions to any situation in life.
2.Israel
Homework arises from the need to memorize the concepts taught in class. Israel is taking a different approach through reduced final year assessment and democratic education. Students in Israel only sit for one final exam at 17-18 years. Assessment is done by the teacher using tasks performed in class. Democratic schooling has also enabled learners to choose their areas of interest. It means that standardized homework is eliminated.
3.South Korea
A South Korean student is supposed to have no more than 2.8 hours of homework each week. It is one of the best examples of homework management around the world. The country recognizes that each student is different and a standardized assessment only crashes the confidence of some pupils. As a rising technology, manufacturing, and business hub, the model seems to be paying off. It has resulted in confident and creative graduates of different levels of education. It has also pushed unemployment to one of the lowest levels in the world.
4.Finland
Finland is perhaps one of the best examples of how to manage homework. It has the shortest school days, long vacations, and only 2.8 hours of homework in a week. Children do not start school until they hit 7 years. Still, it is the sixth country in science and mathematics. The competitive nature of Finnish people proves that their system is working.
5.Brazil
Brazilians like to take it easy with only 3.3 homework hours a week. Children are guided to explore their talents and areas of competence. Their school day is split into three sessions to give room for the high numbers of learners. Still, Brazilians are taking over the world in business and innovation.
There is no proof yet that more homework will translate into better academic performance and skills potential. However, the few leading countries in homework management have a point to proof and everyone must watch. The world can learn from these countries and ease the burden on students.