An Investigation of a 6th Grade Homework After School Completion Program

Abstract

Educational excellence is a key topic of discussion and focus among educators, with some arguing that American educational standards are too low and that the educational system is producing graduates that cannot compete internationally. In recent years, critics and would-be school reformers cite a lack of homework as an area of concern. More homework is viewed as an inexpensive and non-controversial means to address the perceived shortcomings of the educational system. However, little research has actually been conducted to show homework’s effectiveness at increasing educational excellence. This study asks whether the implementation of an After School Completion Program (ASCP) significantly improved the grades and quality of assigned homework. Progress report data, teacher records, attendance records, and a student and parent survey were utilized to track progress and to determine perceptions of the program. The author found little improvement in educational achievement as a result of the implementation of the ASCP, with slight drops having been found in three of four subject areas. Perception surveys show that while a majority of students and parents believed homework was important to reaching academic success, few believed the ASCP was beneficial for the majority of students. The author recommends further research on homework to consider not only achievement but also the effects of homework on students’ attitude towards school and learning more broadly.