Homework Versus No Homework: Do They Matter?

In 2021, Indonesia ranked 62 out of 70 countries in relation to literacy levels. Based on the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), literacy levels and interests are still very low. Meanwhile, many children also struggle to acquire basic academic skills. This lowers the chance for students to maximize their full potential. People were confused about why the majority of students weren’t doing well, considering how they spend hours in front of their computers. This has aroused an interest in other education systems, as people start to compare Indonesia’s systems to other countries such as Finland.

The productivity of education is measured by the duration students spend on school. Indonesia’s school duration can reach up to 7-8 hours, where students spend most of the day learning. It is 50% longer than in Finland where students have  5 hours of school.  The long hours of learning in Indonesia support teaching and learning activities. But it has also been proven that it creates an imbalance between school life and home. In contrast, Finland’s lifelong learning style of spending less time in school supports students’ well-being, health, and maturation.

Indonesian schools strongly stand that homework is considered as a tool that can accelerate and improve a student’s understanding. Contrary to its purpose, homework has been a huge burden to students, during online learning. Looking at Finland, homework is given but students mostly focus on studying in school classes. Parents and teachers in Finland believe that it would be better if all the education students need is provided while they are doing school

Despite that, their learning style still allows them to succeed in life. Even with the differences, several systems implemented in Indonesia do not only focus on academic aspects, just like Finland. 

Sistem Pendidikan terbuka or open learning encourages students to increase creativity and innovation. It has been long established and it would be better to improve its purpose.

Every country has different approaches to education and its idea of an ideal system. Finland’s system has proved that success is possible without any unnecessary pressure given to students. The debate continues about the effectiveness of Indonesian school systems and if Indonesia should modify its curriculum. But for now, it is important for schools to create a holistic learning environment, in which students can develop.