Learning Outcomes and Classroom

¶ … Size Affect Learning Outcomes?

Some educators feel that there is a perfect size for a classroom and that any number over this can lead to stress for both teacher and student. As a result, these educators hold that learning outcomes are negatively impacted the bigger the class becomes. However, if an educator has truly mastered the art of education, then class size really should not be that big of a factor in how well student learning outcomes are achieved: what will matter will be how effectively the teacher implements his or her teaching approach, assessments and classroom design. Thus, this paper will show that class size does not have to affect learning outcomes because teachers can use a variety of teaching methods, evaluation methods, and classroom designs in order to facilitate student learning no matter the size of the class.

Class size does not affect learning outcomes because teachers can use a variety of teaching methods to help them meet the needs of their class no matter the size. A teacher can utilize active learning methods, for instance, to help students acquire knowledge in a deeper way that is generated through students' active engagement with the lessons. For instance, teachers can conduct board races, question/answer sessions, read-alouds, and so on to help engage students. Teachers can also set aside time to meet with students individually in order to make sure the learners have everything they need -- and this can be done regardless of the classroom size as all it takes is a little planning and preparation on the part of the educator. A teacher's method is the main branch upon which learning outcomes are reached.

Class size does not affect learning outcomes teachers can use a variety of evaluation methods to make sure learners are meeting objectives. Evaluation methods can range from direct observation to multiple-choice-questions to portfolio assessment to oral evaluation and so on. The more diverse a teacher's evaluation methods, the more likely the learning outcomes are to be met because the range of assessments will provide the teacher and the student with a better idea of where they are and what they need to do to reach their goals. Assessments offer students opportunity for feedback and reflection that are critical to their success. Thus, class size is not so much a factor in learning outcomes as teacher evaluation methods are.

Class size does not affect learning outcomes because classroom design can help to facilitate learning regardless of the size of the class. Individual learners are keenly aware of and impacted by their environment. A classroom that has access to natural light, is peaceful, is designed to facilitate reflection and rest and has enough space for learners to get out of their seats once in a while and engage in active learning is a classroom that will have more to do with impacting learning outcomes than the size of the class will. How a classroom is designed and organized directly impacts students' ability to think, work and focus. Class size has no substantial bearing on these same issues.