Smaller Class Sizes - A Case for and Against Them

Most educators would argue that smaller class sizes increase the quality of education that the students receive. I  can only partially agree. While small class sizes decrease discipline problems, discipline issues in the schools should be remedied by harsher punishments and stricter parents. The real boon with small class sizes is, in fact, the facilitation of class discussion. It is almost impossible to hold an enlightening, focused conversation on any subject with 30 twelve year olds. Drop that number to 15, and suddenly an intelligent discussion begins.

I would argue, however, that some class sizes in high school should be large in order to prepare students for college. In a small classroom, the teacher knows the student as a person, is on top of what work the student owes, and can tailor instruction to the  child's needs. This makes small class sizes in elementary schools and some middle schools essential to the growth of the student. In high school, however, small class sizes may do students a disservice.

In college, most general education classes are huge - and most students will spend the first two years of college in general education classes. During my freshman year of college, I actually had a class with over 600 people in it. While the smaller, more in-depth senior level classes were definitely my favorites, the huge general education classes are something every student has to go through. Small class sizes at the high school level set students up to expect tailored instruction and constant help from a teacher.

In the lecture hall, no one knows if you turned in your homework and frankly, no one cares. You sink or you swim. Your professor is instructing several hundred other students, and doesn't have time to let you give excuses for your late work or to run practice problems with you. If you need help, you meet with a TA on his or her schedule in a narrow appointment time allotted to you. This means that small class sizes in high school may not adequately prepare students for the realities of college. While small English classes are alright, because even Freshman English usually has some small discussion groups involved, many classes should be large. Students need to learn to be accountable for themselves and their work. Large class sizes in high school can provide students with the chance to practice succeeding in an environment where success and failure hinges on their work ethic alone.