The Battle Over Homework

This third edition helps educators hold constructive conversations with families about making sound decisions regarding homework, and includes the latest research findings and updated policy guidelines.

Does homework work?

Homework is the cause of more friction between school and home than any other aspect of education and becomes the prime battlefield when schools, families, and communities view one another as adversaries. This comprehensive third edition tackles all the tough questions: What's the right amount of homework? What role should parents play in the homework process? What is the connection between homework and achievement?

Harris Cooper provides educators with terms, definitions, and updated research to hold constructive conversations with students, their families, and the community. Administrators, teachers, and parents can collaborate to make sound decisions about homework policies and guidelines as they learn to evaluate:

• Variations in homework that can influence achievement
• Appropriate assignments for different grade levels
• The influence of parents in the homework process
• Recent research findings, best practices, and updated policy guidelines

This essential reference offers all stakeholders the opportunity to end the battle and turn homework into a cooperative effort to promote student learning.

Harris M. Cooper is professor in the Department of Psychology & Neuroscience at Duke University. He earned his doctorate degree in social psychology from the University of Connecticut. His research interests include research synthesis, applications of social and developmental psychology to educational policy issues, homework, school calendars, and afterschool programs.