Playtimes HK Magazine September 2018 Issue | Page 41

features
W
hen it comes to makeup,
close friends, and our
words, more often than
not the old adage of
“less is more” serves us well. Think
of a caption for an Instagram post,
a backpacker packing for a trip to
Europe, or the home of a hoarder
versus an uncluttered home in Japan
– minimalism is usually the preferred
approach. However, there is one
subject to which many can’t seem to
arrive at a consensus as to whether or
not less is really more. And that is the
notion of homework.
Experts have varied opinions
regarding the benefits and limitations
of homework and an abundance of
research to go with those thoughts.
Yet, for most parents and children, the
anticipation of homework comes with
feelings of dread and anxiety.
Some experts believe that the
benefits of homework don’t outweigh
its negatives which has led several
schools in Hong Kong and Positive
Education experts to recommend
the approach of a no-homework
or a limited homework policy. Both
these policies operate in a similar
manner when implemented. In one
variation, homework is assigned with
certain limitations on the amount of
time it should take, within a day or
a week, to complete. Alternatively,
suggested learning engagements may
be offered. At Renaissance College,
for instance, although operating
under a no-homework policy, there
are daily expectations of students to
practice reading, maths, and Mandarin,
whilst the workload increases in the
secondary school. Optional homework
grids are also provided relating to
skill sets. In this way, a family has
flexibility and choice in what learning
assignments to engage in. However,
this is not met without criticism.
Proponents firmly believe that
homework is a necessary component
in learning, especially given the fact that
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