Small Class Size
In my experience, I would agree that a smaller class size benefits the students immensely. I have an excellent combination of younger and older students, and they are able to work together to the great benefit of each other. I have noticed that the younger students normally pair with an older student, and I have even sent them to complete homework and extra credit assignments together, if at all possible. It seems as if the older students somewhat mentor the younger students that are in my class, and are able to offer them life experiences beyond the textbook material.
I agree that smaller classes are better for the students. I use a lot of collaborative learning in my classroom and this allows them to pair up with one or two other students. Everyone has a different learning style so they are teaching each other in different ways. Also, if there is a shy or insecure student, this allows them to open up more to the instructor and their peers.
Yes, I feel that when class sizes are smaller I get more one on one time with students and I feel more confident that they are understanding my lessons
Dianne, small class size can be a great value. Larger courses can also be productive but may require creative thinking and breaking out into smaller groups. Subject matter and level of knowledge transfer can also play a vital role.
James Jackson
I really do enjoy the smaller classes and I do feel they get more of my attention as well as increasing my ability to gauge what their particular needs are to be successful in class. I find there is a little more student involvement in discussions because they feel more confortable to contribute versus a large class, however, sometimes these contributions are not very constructive. They almost get too relaxed and don't think a little bit more of what they say before they say it.
Wilmer, classroom size can vary and really depends on the type of learning that needs to take place and the subject matter. I have been exposed to classrooms of over 50 that were very effective in the learning process but the subject matter was a good fit that that size of a class.
James Jackson
I think a class size of 15 to 20 is a good size. It has enough students for good discussion and group activity but is not too large that students feel lost.
Steven, class size and effectiveness will vary from subject to subject and from instructor to instructor. You need to find what works best for you and then mold effective lesson plans around the models that work best for you and your students.
James Jackson
I agree smaller class are more benifitial and the do feel more secure. But I've had larger classes that felt just as secure but working with them a little more doesnt take that much effort.
Joy , class size is not as much an indicator of student success as some perceive. The real critical factors are curriculum, environment, and applying what we have learned over the years about teaching and learning.
James Jackson
I can't argue with that. I find that a smaller class is much easier to manage, yet it allows the students to open up. In a larger class it's easier for a student to "hide".
I do agree that sometimes smaller classes can lack the enthusiasm and character of larger classes. However, smaller classes allow for more flexibility and rapport among students. It can be a lot of fun.
i totally agree, the size of the class (student count)is a major factor in when it comes to the student experience.
i also find that the younger ones tend to team up with older ones which seems to help them.
Judith, each group of students will be somewhat different but one technique that seems to get positive results is to build relationships within the small class group quickly. Look for good ice-breakers to begin the first couple of days together and work on assignments where students need something from the other but can also makeup work for non-active members rather quickly. One more technique I have used is part of the class grade is based on how each team member rates the other in a totally private format. Students know when they are not participating and if you have multiple check points within your grading rubrics you can really gain full participation if you keep dialog open and the classroom a safe learning environment.
Regards,
James Jackson
I also think that small classes have disadvantages and advantages. Small classes can lack the type or nature of the dialogue that occurs. I also have found that motivation in the small numbered class is more "sensitive". The class is either up or down, motivated or not. One person can sometimes effect all the other positively or negatively. (Big swings). In a large class- this is not as apparent or strong. One person is localized and usually doesn't have an effect on the entire class.
I'm not always sure how to handle the small class with the "big swings" in mood and motivation.
Each student get greater attention in small classes. Students in these classes experience continuing pressure to participate in learning activities and become better, more involved students. Learning curves goes up, and disruptive and off-task behavior goes down.
Smaller classrooms are definitely more benifitial because more one-on-one time can be spent with the student. Also, they feel more secure in smaller class room settings.
I agree completely!
I had an opportunity to do this last term and since, now I try to work it into all of the classes I teach. It solves so many challenges. It allows students to practice their presentation skills. In addition they begin to learn about sources to use for research/reference (which will be helpful after graduation). The information is extremely timely. As graphic designers in an industry changing at lightening fast speeds, it is excellent, and often even more beneficial than case studies in books. And lastly, their interest is outstanding. The information they are sharing tends to be more tangible and digestible because it is current.
Thank you for the input!
Danielle
Danielle, you bring forward some great points about small class size. There are always advantages and disadvantage to most any situation in a classroom environment. The disadvantage of the smaller groups is a lack of input into various discussion topics. There are however some great options available in such cases. One idea is to have each student research a topic and then have them present to the rest of the small group. Have each student take turns presenting information back to the group and also have them head up the discussion for that class period. You can start by having a session on how to conduct a presentation. The motivation for your students is to let them know that presenting their ideas will be an expected skill in the workplace. Those that are able to present their ideas well tend to be those that get promoted and go on to higher levels of responsibility. Of course you will have many ideas on how to motivate your students and this is but one example.
Regards,
James Jackson
I agree, small classes can be great, but at times the discussions lack variety.
I think smaller classes can be helpful in classes such as portfolio preparation. As an instructor it is a luxury to be able to have quality one on one time as these seniors are preparing their portfolios and resumes before entering their new chosen profession. We sill have discussions but it is easier to apply the information to their individual needs.
