Homework has the potential to be an extremely valuable part of students’
learning experience. The increasing frequency of inclusive classroom settings,
however, makes designing and implementing effective homework a challenge
for teachers. Fortunately, research has provided teachers with valuable tools and
knowledge to meet this challenge successfully. It is the teacher’s responsibility
to create effective homework assignments and to provide students and parents
with the tools necessary for the process to be as successful as possible. If teachers
make a concerted effort to utilize classroom strategies to assist students,
design homework in a manner research suggests is most effective, provide opportunities
for positive parent involvement, and actively teach self-regulation,
they will create a homework program that sets all students up for success. Creating
assignments that meet the five hallmarks of effective homework (purpose,
efficiency, ownership, competence, and aesthetic appeal) will facilitate student
interest in homework and promote the belief among students and parents that
homework is meaningful and important (Vatterot, 2010). Educators can set
students up for success by communicating with parents about homework expectations
and student needs, taking into account varying exceptionalities in
homework design, and teaching students self-regulation techniques through
homework assignments. By taking a community approach, educators can create
an atmosphere in their schools where teachers, parents, and students work
together as partners in the educational journey of students. When teachers
believe in the importance of their homework enough to apply research-based
strategies and truly facilitate effective homework practice, they will create a
classroom of learners who also believe in the importance of the work and, ultimately,
of themselves.