The immense pressure from homework.

GD&TĐ - The sheer volume of homework is a problem for the education system in Hong Kong, China.

Experts warn that assigning too much homework, especially to young children, can have serious consequences for their mental and physical health.

According to Hong Kong's educational tradition, homework is considered a tool for reinforcing knowledge, helping students develop study habits, and preparing for new lessons. However, many parents have complained that schools assign too much homework, even to elementary school students, leaving them with no time for other activities.

In response to this situation, many academics have voiced their opposition. Paul Wickes, Principal of Malvern College Hong Kong, emphasized that homework also plays a connecting role between students, parents, and the school. He argued that, when properly designed, it not only enhances understanding but also creates opportunities for parents to be involved with their children.

Malvern employs a phased approach, ranging from 20-30 minutes of homework in kindergarten to approximately two hours per week per subject in 12th grade. Wickes asserts, "Homework should only be assigned if it is meaningful and truly necessary."

However, not everyone agrees with assigning homework from an early age. Clona Cloete, Headmistress of Wilderness International Kindergarten, argues that children under six should not be burdened by textbooks.

Instead, children need to explore the outdoors, engage in imaginative play, and participate in hands-on activities. According to Cloete, prioritizing role-playing, social connection, and emotional intelligence development is far more important than repetitive worksheets.

Jared Dubbs, a former primary school teacher and now a consultant, argues: “The notion that ‘more homework means better grades’ is putting immense pressure on Hong Kong students. Anxiety, insomnia, headaches, and even symptoms of depression can stem from students being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of homework.”

Schools like Malvern emphasize balance, where homework is combined with extracurricular activities, sports , arts, and rest time. Malvern believes that homework needs to be varied to avoid monotony, while focusing on quality rather than quantity.

Jared Dubbs, a former elementary school teacher and now a consultant, said, “The primary purpose of homework is to reinforce knowledge, but there are more effective ways to do this than repetitive writing.” Cloete added that Wilderness School organizes field trips, museum visits, or art classes in place of traditional homework. These activities both foster curiosity and create lasting motivation for learning.

One common point emphasized by experts is the importance of parents. Mr. Wickes recommends that parents establish clear study routines, create a quiet space, eliminate distractions, and maintain contact with teachers. Parents should communicate openly at home to help children feel safe sharing their anxieties, thereby reducing pressure.

Additionally, parents can teach their children time management skills, break down tasks, encourage rest, and foster hobbies outside of academics. More importantly, parents need to teach their children that failure is a natural part of the learning process.

Jared Dubbs, a former elementary school teacher and now a consultant, points out that the pressure from homework not only affects children but also impacts family relationships. When parental expectations and children's abilities don't match, conflict easily arises, leading to tension for both sides.

According to the South China Morning Post

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/ap-luc-lon-tu-bai-tap-ve-nha-post744677.html