Exploring students' homework on learning and engagement in CBC at a Junior school: a case study in chonyi sub-county kilifi county, Kenya

Date of Award

2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

First Advisor

Dr. Winston Edward Massam

Department

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Abstract

The 21st century demands that students develop critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication skills. To equip learners with these essential competencies, the adoption of competency-based curricula (CBC) incorporates innovative assessment approaches such as purposefully designed homework tasks. While homework is traditionally used to reinforce classroom learning, this study examines it as a multidimensional assessment tool within the CBC framework. A qualitative case study was conducted involving interviews with 3 teachers, and 3 parents as well as focus group discussions with 8 students and classroom observations at selected school. School documents were also reviewed. The study revealed both opportunities and challenges with using homework for competency-based assessment. While homework could support the independent application of knowledge and competency development, its quality and alignment to learning objectives varied. Students reported inconsistencies in homework guidance from teachers, negatively impacting motivation. Accessing resources and parental support for homework also posed difficulties for some. However, both teachers and students recognized how well-designed homework deepens understanding, fosters lifelong learning, and informs instruction. For homework to maximize CBC goals, greater attention to planning, learning objective alignment, formative feedback mechanisms, and rubric development is needed. Guidance and teacher capacity-building are also important to create meaningful, engaging homework tasks accommodating diverse student needs. In conclusion, optimizing out-of-class academic activities like homework can effectively support competency development beyond the classroom within CBC systems. With deliberate efforts on design and implementation, homework shows potential as an impactful competency assessment approach contributing to positive CBC student outcomes. Clear recommendations are provided to leverage its full assessment potential.

First Page

1

Last Page

95

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