We Need Smaller Class Sizes

I remember in my first year of teaching when I had a class of thirty-four grade nine students. It wasn't long before the class was split into two. The chaos turned into an amazing learning environment. But now, twenty years later, those classes of thirty-four are closer to the norm. Students are packed into small classrooms and the intimate, necessary learning environment for youth has been destroyed. In the maze of jam-packed desks and cacophonous voices, it’s clear as day: we desperately need smaller class sizes.

Why, you ask? Well, let me take you on a journey.

The Personal Touch:

Back when I was a school kid, Mrs. Thompson, my favorite history teacher, knew each of us by name. She remembered if I had a soccer match over the weekend or if Maria was struggling with the Civil War timeline. This wasn't just because Mrs. Thompson had a photographic memory (which I sometimes believed she did) but because she had fewer students to keep track of. Smaller classes foster a personal connection between educators and students. In these close-knit settings, teachers can understand individual student needs, strengths, and areas of growth.

More Active Participation:

I admit, as a student, I had my moments of drifting into daydreams, especially when hidden in a sea of faces. In larger classes, it's easier for students to feel lost, to sit quietly in the back, and to never raise their hands. Smaller class sizes encourage active participation. There's nowhere to hide, and that’s a good thing! Everyone has an opportunity to voice their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in discussions.

Tailored Learning:

No two students are alike. While I thrived in history, math felt like deciphering an alien language. In a class bursting at its seams, it's challenging for educators to cater to individual learning needs. Smaller classes allow teachers to notice who's racing ahead and who's trailing behind, enabling them to adjust their teaching strategies accordingly.

Fewer Distractions:

Remember the ruckus of 30-plus students settling down? Multiply that noise and distraction a couple of times, and you get today's mega-sized classes. Smaller groups naturally lead to fewer disturbances and distractions. The focus remains on learning, ensuring the classroom environment is conducive to concentration.

Building Strong Bonds:

Larger classes can lead to anonymity, making it challenging for students to forge connections. In smaller classes, not only do students bond with the teacher, but they also build stronger ties with one another. This fosters a supportive learning community where students collaborate, help, and uplift each other.

Enhanced Emotional Well-being:

In smaller classes, teachers can more easily spot students who might be struggling emotionally or socially. Whether it’s anxiety over a particular subject, issues with peers, or personal challenges outside of school, teachers in smaller settings can provide the necessary support and intervention early on. Also, with fewer students to manage, teachers can implement activities and discussions that nurture emotional intelligence, helping students understand and express their feelings while also empathizing with their peers.

Greater Flexibility in Teaching Methods:

In a smaller class, teachers have more leeway to experiment with diverse teaching methodologies. Whether it's project-based learning, hands-on experiments, or group discussions, educators can more easily switch gears and adapt to what works best for that particular group of students. And in terms of feedback and assessment, teachers can provide detailed, personalized feedback. This might include portfolio assessments, one-on-one discussions, or tailored assignments that challenge students based on their individual strengths and interests.

Promotion of Lifelong Skills and Values:

Smaller groups mean that every student gets a chance to lead, whether it’s in group projects, class discussions, or presentations. These opportunities instill confidence and leadership skills, preparing students for future roles in the workplace and community; whereas, in larger classes, it's easier for students to remain passive or rely on others to shoulder responsibilities. In contrast, smaller class sizes ensure that every student plays an active role in their learning journey, fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability.

So, you see, this isn't just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It’s a call to action. The magic of learning thrives in environments where every student feels seen, heard, and understood. By advocating for smaller class sizes, we're not just reminiscing about the past; we're envisioning a brighter, more effective future for education. Let's make that vision a reality!

Dylan Callens

The Teachers' Blog