Homework

It is interesting to know that parents are uncomfortable with enrichment centres that do not assign a lot of homework. It is even more interesting to know that some parents view the amount of homework assigned as a sign of substance that the centre is capable of imparting to their students.

First and foremost, we do not believe in assigning a lot of homework. The objective of our homework is to ensure LEARNING CONTINUITY and MASTERY OF the CONCEPTS and TECHNIQUES taught in class. We value-add to our students' learning by sharing smart techniques to handle challenging questions. These smart techniques require practise to master, just like swimming or any other activities-be it sports, games, baking, driving, etc.

We all know that the more we practise, the better we become. From most enrichment centres' perspective, the more homework assigned, the better the student would be. However, there are many demands in a student's life other than that certain subject. The focus should be on quality, not quantity, bearing in mind that we are not living in the ideal world with no time constraints and infinite energy.

Given the minimal homework assigned, we are very serious about our student's ability to complete the homework. When any of our students failed to complete the homework, we found out that most of the time it is due to either

1. pure laziness-bad attitude, or

2. the student do not know how to solve the problem.

Root Causes

1. Lack responsibility. Being not responsible has its advantage, i.e. one can always blame someone else. Being Responsible is an important Habit.

2. The student's failure to problem solve is because he/she did not listen attentively in class and raised questions when in doubt. As we always emphasize, our students are responsible for their own learning. They must take the initiative in learning. Listen Attentively and Raising Questions are important Habits of the Mind.

Actions

1. Communicate to the parents and student.

2. Student to understand consequence of his unacceptable habit and to start take ownership of his learning

3. Parents and trainer to monitor progress

It will take time for the child to develop good habits. There is no quick fixes.

Often we have been reminded that if parents view the amount of homework with such high regard, it seems silly to not follow the masses. We believe that there are parents who would understand and appreciate our holistic approach.

"Take your life in your own hands, and what happens?

A terrible thing: no one to blame." ~ Erica Jong