The Learning Kill Joys

In this session we explored the dominant beliefs we hold about learning and the education system that prevent children from enjoying learning. For example, there is a lot of debate over homework. Many believe homework is essential to academic success while there is a growing body of evidence to suggest, that it has very little benefit. Regardless of your views most parents agree that homework can cause a lot of stress and anxiety at home. This article by Scientific Learning sets out both sides of the homework debate.

Another more controversial belief is that school uniforms improve results. This view is highly popular among teachers, parents and a large proportion of pupils. However the evidence doesn't stack up as this article in the Guardian discussed. This report from Scotland's Commissioner from Children and Young People highlights the implications of enforcing a hard line on uniforms.

There are lots of other reasons children's natural enthusiasm for learning gets driven out of them. Those cited most often include: an over-stuffed curriculum; too much focus on academic results; and boredom which comes from too much time spent indoors sitting at desks. What others would you and your children add to the list?