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How can homework problems be resolved?
The issues surrounding homework can only be resolved by establishing
and maintaining clear and effective communication between the home and
school. Teachers and parents must work collaboratively to establish
homework policies, mutual expectations, required practices, level of
student performance and procedures for addressing difficulties with
homework completion.
Establishing a set of routines and procedures can effectively
address the difficulties in getting the homework home, completed, returned
to school and handed in on time. (Willey, 2000)
At school, modifications can be made to assure homework
is properly recorded. Homework calendars, journals or assignment books
are advisable. Homework can be written down by support staff with clarifying
comments or staff could check and review the accuracy of the student’s
record or notes. Teaching students a set routine for recording homework
and collecting materials is important. Visual prompts such as a social
story, outline of steps or pictures are helpful supports for students.
WHAT ABOUT HOMEWORK DURING A STUDY HALL AT SCHOOL?
At home, parents and students need support in setting
up a routine and establishing guidelines for completing homework. Teachers
and parents should discuss the learning environment including the work
space, eliminating distraction, setting time limits, the need for breaks
and positive reinforcement and strategies for managing assignments.
Access to e-mail, fax, homework hotlines and homework partners can be
of great assistance to the student.
Getting homework to school and handed in on time also
requires a collaborative effort. If appropriate, students can use a
visual support to collect their homework materials and place it in their
backpack. If this goes beyond the attention and endurance of the student,
parents should assist by placing the homework in the backpack for them.
Likewise, a set routine or procedure should be in place in school for
handing in the homework assignment.
A homework checklist* like the one in Figure A helps parents
and teachers develop a set routine and procedures for getting homework
home, completed and handed in (Myles & Adreon, 2001).
In addition to the checklist here are few other helpful
hints to keep in mind when addressing homework issues.
- It is in the best interest of the student to solve
the homework dilemma.
- Clear expectations should be set and shared with the
student.
- Avoid making homework a controversial issue. It doesn’t
work for everyone!
- Above all, reinforce efforts…EVERYONE’S !!!!!!
SUMMARY
Students with ASD can derive benefit from a well-planned and meaningful
homework program. Homework can provide opportunities to fortify learning,
build student confidence, and better prepare them to participate more
effectively and appropriately in classroom instruction. Based on the
individual needs of the student, homework can also be designed to develop
or practice organizational and time management skills, establish and
maintain a routine and practice asking for assistance in an appropriate
manner.
Home-school collaboration is key to developing an effective
homework program.Teachers and parents need to work together to determine
the appropriateness and goal of homework assignments, develop a set
routine for getting homework home, completed and turned in on time,
and a procedure for clarifying issues that arise.
Homework should never become a war between home and school
or turn the home into a battlefield.
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