But there are some important issues related to homework. First, when you look at the homework that is assigned, the level of difficulty of the work may vary considerably between that required of Japanese students and that required of American students. It's not just quantity, but quality that matters. Second, Japanese students are motivated to seek additional learning time. Learning seems to be more valued.
Students know there are stakes attached to how well they do.
They won't make it into the best high schools or get the best jobs if they aren't serious about their studies. And they know clearly what is expected of them. Finally, when American teachers spend time in class not only going over homework but giving students time to work on the homework, they have less time that can be devoted to the development of the day's lesson. In prior studies, there was some criticism about the fairness of the samples from other countries. These samples are fair .