Homework Assignment Preference Scale for Science Courses: A Validity and Reliability Study

Abstract

Homework assignments are have important role in learning process. In literature emphasizes
that homework assignments do not attract students’ attention and that students do homework
assignment just for the sake of formality. It is concretely argued that assigned homework
assignment should take into consideration students’ preferences, interests, and needs. In this
study, the “Homework Assignment Preference Scale” was developed to determine students’
homework assignment preferences within the scope of a science course. A pilot study was
conducted with 155 middle school students, and the main study was conducted with 924
middle school students. Exploratory factor analysis and principal components analysis were
conducted to ensure the construct validity of the scale. Hierarchical cluster analysis and
confirmatory factor analysis were performed to confirm the emergent factor structures.
Results showed that the scale was a valid and reliable tool.