WHEN THE PROCESS IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE RESULT

PRECY S. BUGAYONG

There are certainly debates among those in the field of education on whether or not giving homework to students is beneficial in their studies. Most educators would say that these homeworks help students understand the lesson better and enable them to develop their self-studying skills. Some however, would argue that giving homeworks can actually be counterproductive and that these assignments only take even more time from the students which they are supposed to use for rest or as time to bond with their families. Perhaps the problem does not lie with giving homework per se, but on the mindset developed by the students due to the demands of the educational syst em.

It is undeniable that homeworks indeed have their merit when it comes to making the students understand the lesson better. However, this can only be truly successful when done correctly. That is, by ensuring that each student truly works on the given assignment. Working independently on their own, having a group of friends to work together with or even seeking help from their parents. It is only counterproductive when students copy from other’s work without learning the process of solving the problem themselves. The problem is that students often opt to do the latter, which most people would contribute to their laziness, but what brought about this laziness?

The answer lies with what our educational system demands from them. They are made to endure hours of school for most days of the week, having to complete projects and school works in what little free time that they have, and being pressured into aiming to get those high grades. Yes, they often say that “grades don’t define me”, but let us face the truth. These students strive to make their parents proud. With honors, with high honors, or even with highest honors, they aim for these rewards for their parents and maybe even for the society’s validation. Because that is how most Filipinos are, you are only made to feel worthy if you are an “honor student”.

Perspective may be the important key in this situation. As educators, we should learn how to adjust according to the needs and situation of our students. It is important to teach students not just the lessons, but on how to appreciate learning in itself. Perhaps there are days in which we could give a little homework to help them study and then there are days in which we let them rest from all the tiring school works. After all, it is of no use that we create “honor students” when their mental and physical health are jeopar di zed.

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The author is Teacher III at Pampanga High School