Homework...No thank you.

When you hear the word "homework," what are the first things that come to mind? My first thoughts are: an obstacle or chore that's getting in the way of me doing something else. Homework for as long as I can remember was something you just did because it was, well, a part of life. I wonder how many worksheets I did over the course of my schooling. My next thought is, did my level of learning or understanding increase because of those experiences? The only meaningful or memorable homework I did was project based in which my parents helped me. Before homework is assigned, I want teachers to think about why they're giving it. What is your purpose and how is it going to improve learning? This is the first year that I've officially taken a "no homework" policy. The first weeks of school consisted of questions like, "when do we get homework?" "Where are the worksheets?" After an explanation about why I've decided not to give homework, responses were what I expected, excitement and relief. Initially it sounds like a free pass to not have to think about learning after 3:30 pm.  Eventually I was hearing questions like, "Can I bring this home to work on?" I was witnessing students taking things home to practice or read. Are my students learning less because I don't give homework? Are they going to do worse on the state standardized test because they haven't read for 30 minutes and haven't answered 30 division problems each night? I'd like to think not. Some may argue that it teaches responsibility but my response is, is this the most effective way to teach kids how to be responsible? "With power comes responsibility." Give kids an opportunity to make decisions and they will learn how to be decision makers. Ultimately, I want my students to grow to become life long learners. Rich learning happens when you care about something and deep down you want to improve. I am not completely against homework and I know there are times when it can be meaningful when it has a purpose. Homework is not going to disappear. Not every teacher will share the same philosophy as me so when it is assigned to you, don't be afraid to question it's purpose (politely). Think about whether it will be a positive learning experience for you. Do you have the necessary resources or understanding to be able to do it independently? Will you be excited about what it is you're trying to learn? Obviously not everything you do will be thrilling however when given the power of choice, you are able to turn a routine task into something more interesting. Think about the ways in which you learn best and don't ever hesitate to ask questions. Homework...no thank you!