Response to Yesterday's Presentations

During yesterday's book review presentation, I was especially intrigued by Jessica's book about eliminating homework in schools. As a future educator, I've been thinking a great deal about how I want to approach the subject of homework. While I do think that homework can be effective when used approproately, I also think that homework contributes to the lack of enthusiasm students have for learning.
Many students are involved in after-school activities or hold part-time jobs. Should these students fall behind in their homework, their grades suffer and their understanding of the material is not adequately evaluated. These students may have a strong mastery of the subject matter, but do not have enough time to complete homework assignments.
Another criticism I have of homework is its usual lack of application and value. Having read a book about John Dewey for this assignment, I have also been thinking about how I can make my work more meaningful for students. If the homework is only assigned for busy work or practice, then the students could easily complete this in the classroom during the schoolday and most likely has no merit. Educators must remember that their students are children and they should have an opportunity to be kids. After spending an entire day seated in a classroom, these kids must be allowed free time to release their energy and enjoy themselves. Without these opportunities, students will quickly begin to resent both the school work itself and their educators for assigning the material.

What are your feelings about homework? How can homework be approached so as to allow students free time but also prepare them for the heavy workload of college?