Heidi Crumrine’s article about smaller classrooms was excellent (Monitor Forum, Jan. 24). Hopefully more people searched for the ending as I did (B6 instead of B2) because it could be eye opening.
As a person who has taught all class sizes with ages from preschool to adult, all subjects through high school and ESL through college, I can say class size matters and that makes the difference in a student’s enthusiasm and ability to learn.
But class size should differ based on factors. For example, ESL classes should be no larger than 15 students. Science classes involving labs require more attention, and so does writing. Younger people need smaller classes.
Another factor in class size decision-making is cost. The balance between optimum learning and cost is the challenge. To reach an optimum class size/cost ratio, perhaps consideration of the mix of students, the subject matter and learning styles. Teacher aides can be college interns.
A principle told me that “real learning happens when there is a dialogue between a student and teacher and that happens on average only 5 minutes per day.” Imagine the amount of time a student would get in a class of 25 versus 15.
A child needs the ability to learn long after school is out. We need to consider the best class size, presentation methods and materials to present so that our students will be perpetual creative learners and the leaders of our world tomorrow. The price and class size reduction is worth it.
MILEVA LOO
Bow