FEATURE: HOMEWORK
new format that homework would be taking. Then, for the first few months, every time a student did not complete their homework in full, we called home and explained again how the new system worked. Most initial queries related to the self-help videos and how the algorithm chooses appropriate levels. It took a little work, but our percentage completion rate was in the high 90s, which was an incredible feat for our students and school. It’s now fully embedded and we rarely have queries from parents (excluding the new cohort each year).
How it works The tool we use is intuitive and adapts as students use it, meaning homework can become more, or less, challenging depending on their answers. Students can log in, read instructions in their own time, watch a video and pace themselves through questions. Students receive instant feedback, and we can
immediately see completion rates for both groups and individuals. It also identifies areas for improvement which, as a teacher, would take much longer to do manually. It gives us more in- depth insights into how a class, or an individual student, is actually doing and we use this to identify trends. This then feeds into our future planning. We’re also able to provide more support to disadvantaged learners, as it is easier to see who needs additional help.
Feedback from parents An advantage we had was that newer generations of parents are generally more tech- savvy, and most have access to the internet. This meant getting them to trial and test the new tool was relatively straightforward. Parents also like things clearly set out in one place and it provides a wider range of resources than students might otherwise have access to at home, such as the self-help Maths videos. Our parents have been very positive about how
students receive personalised homework, including revision and how, instead of increasing homework, it has actually streamlined it. They like that students can go at their own pace and watch back the videos as many times as they
need to. They also really like the weekly emails they receive that keep them up to date. Parents can see that it’s helped us, as teachers,
to gain some valuable time back to focus on individual students. It’s also been reassuring that parents understand that our roles as teachers are still crucial for planning, direction and analysis. EdTech couldn’t work without effective teacher management! There’s been a real shift in culture that’s been
great to see. Using Sparx has given parents more understanding and greater appreciation for their children’s learning. They like to support their children’s maths homework, and this helps them to provide constructive support. We’ve seen an increase in engagement, motivation and confidence in maths among parents, which I believe is having a real impact on student progress and wellbeing.
Things to consider before implementing EdTech for homework
• Get input and feedback from all SLT, staff, students and parents, so you can take a collaborative approach, and understand what you want to achieve
• Look for good quality, evidence based EdTech and ideally ask for a trial, so you can get a clearer sense of the potential impact
• Devise an effective roll-out plan to ensure a smooth transition and integration, including adequate IT support, and allow time for preliminary issues.
• Consider varying home environments, such as access to WIFI or hardware and have a plan in place to address any issues. EdTech has to be accessible to all.
• Provide guidance and training, so both pupils and parents can confidently use the EdTech solution
• Be aware that parents may be able to encourage more challenging work because of the
algorithm which can be great, but balance is important to ensure children are sensibly challenged, rather than overstretched.
Implementing EdTech might not be a quick or
straightforward process, but for us the rewards have been 100% worth it. Engaging parents in homework is of course possible without using EdTech and ultimately, homework should be focused on improving learning outcomes (whether it’s delivered through EdTech or more conventional methods). For us, it’s working. EdTech has really been
transformative for parents at ASAP who previously didn’t feel confident enough to support their children with their homework. We’re also reviewing homework strategies for other subjects because of the success with Maths.
All Saints Primary Academy Plymouth is a secondary school for children aged 11-16 and is part of The Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust.
April 2021
www.education-today.co.uk
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