I totally disagree with the argument that the article has pointed out about homework ‘killing’ a child. The story claims that students are exhausted, due to the unbearable workload they are given in the form of excessive homework. I had been a Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) student, studying in the UAE for the past 14 years. I graduated this year and recently joined a college in Dubai. I have seldom faced this kind of exhausting pressure during these 14 years, due to homework.
Homework is supposed to be done by children so that they learn to be independent and not be spoon-fed. Not a single student has commented about their experience in the published article. Only three parents have given their views on this subject. I cannot accept that schools overload students with Arabic homework. We need to respect the fact that we are living in an Arab country and be grateful that we have the opportunity to learn a new language.
Students who go for tuitions receive extra homework, which cannot be blamed on the school because not all students attend extra classes. I myself did not go for any extra classes except during grades 11 and 12, as I opted for the Science stream. Even though homework is expected to be completed at home, children can still manage time and finish as much as they can during the substitution periods in school. I treat homework as a revision of the concepts covered in class. I believe that giving homework can actually help students learn important life skills like time management and focus. Learning this will benefit them later on, especially when they start working. In college, we have plenty of assignments, readings and projects to complete. I always feel like I am prepared for any work given to me because I am so used to my school assignments.
I prefer to begin doing my homework on the very day I receive it, instead of waiting for the deadline. As a student, I prioritise my time and focus more on the important, urgent homework first. If I am too tired or stressed to finish it, I don’t force myself. I also try to be positive and see my work as a challenge, not a problem. We need to learn to be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.
-The reader is a student and resident of Dubai
