There have been decades of debate and much research on the effects of class size on student learning; however most educators and researchers agree that class size matters. Research shows that large classes take away the focus of enabling students to learn and achieve to the best of their ability.
There is abundant research indicating that smaller classes mean educators have more opportunity to give students individual attention. Smaller classes improve student behaviour and peer relationships and increase student engagement and achievement in the early grades. These factors, in turn, contribute to increased student success. There is also strong evidence that smaller class size has a positive impact on students with the greatest educational needs, particularly those with special needs.
It should also be noted that in British Columbia, the government’s increased class sizes resulted in student disengagement and decreased achievement. As a result, the government lost public support and paid a high financial cost.
Ontario currently has one of the best public education systems in the world ensuring high quality public education for every student regardless of where they live in the province or what their particular circumstances are. Children shouldn’t have to pay for government cuts.
Get informed. Talk to friends and colleagues. See the Building Better Schools Website.
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