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.