The effects of ungraded homework on student learning and homework completion rates in a high school biology classroom

Abstract

In two high school Biology classes, a modified homework grading practice was implemented by removing the grade or credit from assigned homework. Homework provides students with opportunities to learn outside of the classroom and deepen their understanding of a subject. Homework doesn't account for the diversity of student life circumstances, rewards compliance, and does not necessarily measure what a student knows. This could be creating an unequal educational environment for student learning opportunities and evaluation of their learning. The purpose of this study was to determine how removing the grade from assigned homework affected student learning and homework completion rates. The study was implemented for 15 weeks and included four units of study. Prior to the study period, students were given an anonymous pre-treatment questionnaire. Throughout the study period, students completed daily formative assessments, daily homework questionnaires, summative assessments, and summative assessment questionnaires. Student focus group interviews and questionnaires were administered at the conclusion of the study period to obtain student opinions regarding their experience with ungraded homework. While the rate of homework completion decreased during the treatment units, there was not an overall significant difference between unit test scores during the units with graded and ungraded homework. There was a weak positive correlation between homework completion rates and student unit test scores. Homework is one of many tools that can support student learning. This study finds that when homework provides an opportunity to review and practice concepts already introduced in class, credit for homework may not be warranted. The data suggests that students who complete ungraded homework do so with more fidelity. Students can still achieve content mastery with homework that does not count toward or against their grade. However, homework completion was also shown to improve student learning. Awarding points incentivized homework completion.