Class Size Debate

By | October 20, 2014

In Washington state we’re voting on limiting class size.  As a teacher from the state, I didn’t realize how large our classes were in comparison to other states until I spoke with teachers when I was traveling.

There are so many issues tied to large classes; some are the physicl constraints of the rooms, more importantly are the issues of providing the best education for students. Studies show a variety of results: it matters, it doesn’t matter, no clear evidence exists to support or deny that class size makes a difference.

So? Ask a teacher. Most will tell you that class size matters. Why?

Contact with individual students is important. The time and space to work with them on their projects and learning needs helps a teacher understand the individual learner (how the learner processes, what excites the learner, what confounds the learner, what questions answered will open up new learnings).

Take an average school day of five hours instruction time. Imagine as if you could spend every minute with individual students. Divide that by thirty students and figure your possible total time with one student ( 300 divided by 30= 10 minutes). Now divide that by 20 students (300 dividied by 20 = 15 minutes).  With 20 students that’s 50% more 1:1 time.

True, most teachers do not spend every minute with individual students, but those who invite in classroom assistants have more opportunities to do just that. With smaller classes, plus added help, more students have more time with more adults who can provide more learning opportunities.

The physical space in classrooms is another issue that lower class size improves. Today’s education involves providing technology to students. Technology requires space. Figure the area and perimeter of a classroom: 30 kids vs. 20 kids. In addition to the teacher and the kids, consider tables, desks, and chairs+ libraries + student learning centers+technology). Consider the space 30 sixth grader physically need? In some schools you’d need to add backpacks/musical instruments. Feeling crowded?

Solution: Since the classrom physical sizes are set, we can improve the chance for student learning by lowering class size and inviting in assistants . Our goal is to educate students so let’s give them every possible opportunity and environment to succeed.