Should no-homework policy be encouraged?

BlondeAmber (Ireland)

Homework is necessary to ensure the class lessons have been learnt and understood. For language learners, time outside of class is essential as this is a skill that needs regular practice. So many students I teach don't seem to think this is important: many IELTS and TOEFL students seem to think that once they get a sufficient score, they don't need to continue doing any English practice, whereas this is only a measure of what they know at that point. Homework is also an important way teachers can monitor a students' progress or areas of weakness.

A sleepy student rubs his eyes during a ceremony held to open a new semester at Xiangming Junior High School, in Shanghai, on Sept 1, 2015. [Photo provided to China Daily]