1. Objectifs

Intentions :
«The current paper focuses on the first steps of the preparation of a Change Laboratory to address the ongoing issue of homework in a low SES [socioeconomic status] elementary school. The goal of the intervention was to enhance the collaboration between teachers and parents for the benefit of pupils’ achievement and educational success.» (p. 2)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
«The group of participants included 11 teachers […], working at the same elementary school site and three observers (1 school principal, 2 researchers, face-to-face and on Skype).» (p. 6)

Instruments :
Guide d’entretien semi-directif

Type de traitement des données :
Analyse de contenu

3. Résumé

This study show that «the types and purposes of homework, the deadline for handing in the assignments and the classroom organization […] and the teachers’ expectations regarding parents’ involvement (division of laborpole) and students’ autonomy development were the most discussed topics under the explicating expressions. On their part, criticism expressions highlighted the challenges met by parents […] regarding their involvement in homework […] and linked to their low SES and their low level of schooling. Criticism expressions also put into light other parents’ challenges linked to the classroom organization and homework deadlines as well as the sharing of responsibilities regarding homework (division of labor pole). Through criticisms, teachers […] realized that their double role as teacher and as parents made it easier to understand the parents’ challenges regarding homework especially when the child is having learning difficulties.» (p. 12-13) Also, «[a]ccording to the teachers, some parents seemed to experience a lack of competency and a lack of time when it comes to supervising their child’s homework. Some are tempted to get over involved, that is, do the homework themselves. [The authors conclude that] teachers who are also parents could be excellent resource persons to remind colleagues to provide clearer and simplified directives regarding homework.» (p. 14)