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Home Learning

The elementary school is making an exciting transition from homework to homelearning. This change empowers parents to guide how their child's time is spentafter leaving school. It is a transition from one-size-fits-all homework to learningtailored to the child's interests and needs. The concept of home learning stemsfrom not only the most current research, but the diversity of parent opinion onthe value of daily homework. The key difference in home learning is that it supportsstudent-motivated learning and provides parents with an opportunity to determine whatis best for their child.

The Research ProcessDuring the summer a faculty committee read and reviewed research on play andhomework and presented its findings to the leadership team and faculty. Keyfindings from the research and subsequent discussions led us to make changes in

our homework policy and practices.

Key Findings on Homework and Play .Reading has the single greatest impact on student achievement.Brain-based research has shown that unstructured, imaginative, child-centeredplay and physical activity enhance student performance and lead to better behavioral choicesStudents often sacrifice time for authentic reading in order to complete theirhomework.There is no conclusive evidence that homework increases standardized test scoresor improves academic achievement.

Conclusions We concluded that the seven hours your child spends in our school provide aquality and rich learning experience. We also believe that family time isimportant. Because we value and honor the time that you spend with yourchildren beyond the school day, we want to support you in making choices that fit with your family values and needs, as well as support your childs learning. Weare trying to free up time for children to play and to make home learning moreplayful.

RecommendationsIn lieu of assigning homework packets in which all children complete the same work, we are recommending instead that your child have play time and engage inextended leisure reading after school. Time spent in unstructured play afterschool is as valuable as any formal learning experience.This shift from a one-size-fits-all packet of homework to home learning honorsthe central importance of play and reading in a childs development and learning. Additionally, learning initiated in the class will have natural extensions to homelearning. For example, your child may be invited to bring items from home tocontribute to school projects. In our classroom learning communities we will

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celebrate school-home learning connections. When it benefits an individualstudent, the teacher, parent and child may make a plan to address specificlearning needs.

Visual Model of the Shift

Homework Home Learning

One-size-fits-all homework packets Acknowledges the importance ofdeveloping a variety of talents andinterests outside the school day.

Assigned number of pages or minutesto read and record in a reading log eachnight

Daily reading for the joy of reading(without reading logs)

Homework is checked Home learning may be shared with afamily member and/or in the classroom.

Assigned by the teacher Student empowered to make choices inhis/her learning

Tasks to be completed Inquiry, exploration and joy in learning

Tends to decrease motivation Promotes the desire to keep learning

Typically maintained with rewardsstructures/ extrinsic motivation

Fosters intrinsic motivation