Could we clarify the definition of "homework"? As a teacher, I assume that homework is work that is either assigned specifically to be done at home, or work begun in class, but there is clearly insufficient time to complete it in class. There are always some students who do not complete what they are given in class (I'm talking high school here) while the majority of their classmates do complete it - Is this homework? I would be interested in hearing what others think.

And I'd still like to hear what other readers think about the topic of "educating" parents (I hate that term - please excuse the use of it) about the research on homework. For the most part, if parents want their kids to do "homework" they should get them reading something they enjoy.