The Homework Problem

23/10/2024 1h 1min
The Homework Problem

Listen "The Homework Problem"

Episode Synopsis

In this episode, Lower School teacher, Elias Naegele, and Upper School teachers, Joel Sellier, and Michael Hude, engage in a comprehensive debate on the role and effectiveness of homework in student development. They explore differing viewpoints on the necessity of homework, its impact on motivation and resilience, and how it balances with classroom work and personal time. The conversation delves into the merits of fostering independent learning versus traditional rote assignments, the importance of tailored and thoughtful homework, and strategies for incorporating creativity and virtue-building into school routines. The discussion concludes by considering the broader implications for educational philosophy and practical classroom approaches. Chapters 00:17 Intro 02:04 What is "Homework?" 06:19 Reading vs. Written Work 07:47 The "No Homework" Argument 12:26 Homework as an Exercise in Self-Discipline 16:08 How Much Time Does a Student Have? 21:40 Does Homework Even Work? 23:09 Homework Time 25:03 Are Textbooks beneficial? 27:22 Maybe We Should Hold onto Homework 29:02 Elias is Reminded of Seabiscuit 30:34 Change from Family Centered into School Centered Mentality 32:12 Appropriate Homework Loads for Students 33:47 Unassigned Leisure Reading 35:33 Joel Asside and Seventh Grade Religion 37:09 Memory Work 39:00 Memorization 39:50 Homework must be Assigned Well 42:31 Other Responsibilities and the Juggling Act 43:10 Does Homework make one Pretend or Love their work 46:42 The Overworked Student is the Exception, Not the Rule 51:16 Homework as Training in Virtue