Understanding Teachers' Perceptions of Students Who Don't Do Homework

Teaching is a challenging profession that requires not only knowledge of the subject matter but also an understanding of the various factors that affect student performance. One such issue is homework, and teachers often have differing perspectives on students who fail to complete their assignments. This article explores these viewpoints and discusses the complex dynamics at play.

Teachers' Perspectives on Non-Completing Students

Teachers are predominantly concerned with ensuring their students succeed academically. However, the perception of students who fail to do their homework can vary widely. Some teachers, especially those in higher education, view it as a lack of responsibility (see full quote).

Teachers like John Smith, who teaches at a local college, share the view that homework is a key component of their course. He states: "I prepare good lectures based on the book's material. I demonstrate the techniques they'll need to know in order to pass the class. And a lot of my students happily learn from that. I have many many students who are getting A’s and B’s, a few who get C’s, but you can’t pass my class if you don’t do the homework and take the tests. So I quietly roll my eyes when I look at a row of zeroes in my gradebook, but I usually add another or a few and figure either the student will get their act together or they won’t. And since I teach college, it's up to the student to monitor their own progress except at a few specific times of the semester. If they can't do the minimum that's on them."

Other teachers, however, might find this behavior irritating. As Mary Parker puts it, 'Teachers are concerned about such few typical students. They think the student is facing problems in studies, but when this behavior of the student becomes repeated, they think the student isn’t interested in studies. They conclude that the student is unprogressive, undynamic, and irresponsible. They also blame parents to be irresponsible and unconcerned about their child. This can lead to a negative feedback loop where students lose confidence and motivation.'

The Impact on Academic Success

The impact of not doing homework can vary significantly depending on the class and the weight of assignments in the overall grade. In some classes, homework might only count for 5% of the grade, making it easy for students to blow it off (see example quote). In other classes, it could account for 60% of the grade, leading to dire consequences for those who fail to complete it (see quote).

Teachers might find it frustrating, but ultimately, the responsibility lies with the student. As John Smith explains, 'Students who don’t do it there are doomed to fail. On the other hand, students who face challenges and can’t do the minimum work even though they have the time to do it, well, I wish them luck.'

Student Perspectives and Solutions

Students who don't do their homework often have varied reasons for their actions, such as laziness, pride, having a hard time with the material, or lack of time. One student, who once danced during afternoons, explains, 'I once had a student who danced during afternoons. It's understandable when students have their reasons for not doing homework.'

Teachers and students can work together to address these issues. Students should be encouraged to confront their problems in studies directly with their teachers and provide the actual reasons for not completing homework. This honest communication can help maintain a positive image as a student and boost confidence.

According to Mary Parker, 'One can confront their problems in studies to their teachers and give the actual reason for not completing the homework in order to maintain a positive image as a student. This can also boost up our confidence and can enhance our grip on topics and can also motivate us to be dynamic and maintain consistency.'

Ultimately, understanding the perspectives of both teachers and students is crucial for promoting academic success and responsibility.

Quotes from Teachers

"I quietly roll my eyes when I look at a row of zeroes in my gradebook, but I usually add another or a few and figure either the student will get their act together or they won’t. And since I teach college, it's up to the student to monitor their own progress except at a few specific times of the semester. If they can't do the minimum that's on them."

Class GPA Examples

"Nothing. Students should not be burdened with homework." - John Doe, another teacher at the same college.

Homework Weight in Grades

"It depends. In some classes homework counts for 5 of a grade. Lots of students blow it off. Understandable. In other classes it accounts for 60 of grade. Students who dont do it there are doomed to fail."