Rising School in Dubai implements ‘no homework’ rule

Dubai: Homework can negatively impact the learning process, Rising School in Dubai, which is implementing a ‘no homework’ rule, has said. The American curriculum school has cited research, including a Stanford University study, which looked into the benefits of removing homework from school life. Rising School, located in Nad Al Sheba, added that it has taken into consideration the findings of such studies, in efforts to improve the education experience of its students. It said it implements a ‘No Homework Policy’ for a number of reasons, including the idea that homework can have an extended effect on the physical well-being of the children, as they could possibly become run down due to stress and exhaustion. Dr Michael Bartlett, principal of Rising School, said: “If asked, this would be the ideal scenario for any student — not having to do any school work in the afternoon once the bell has rung. "There are a number of highly valid reasons for why not assigning homework is beneficial to the learning process. One example is that students who struggle with learning materials may be burdened with feelings of helplessness when left to their own resources while doing homework, whereas high achievers would not find the assignments stimulating.” Besides homework’s “negative effects” on different students, Stanford’s study found common factors, including that parents are not qualified educators, and therefore might not be able to help in the most adequate way. This, said Dr Bartlett, could make a frustrating situation even worse. “Not only does homework tire out students after a long day at school, but also reduces time spent playing and engaging with the family, both of which are vital to a child’s early development.” Rising School said it prioritises providing an inquiry approach to education, where students learn as they explore their surroundings. This is not possible, the school added, if pupils are tasked with the chore of homework, as during this time they do not have concurrent questions addressed. “Our ‘no homework policy’ allows students to explore hobbies and out of school interests, facilitating their development into well rounded adults. As a result, they are also left with ample time to get engrossed in a good book with their parents, growing their vocabulary and sparking their creativity,” said Dr Bartlett. Source: Gulf News