Class size matters, but…

The smaller the class, the more attention a teacher can give each student and the better the learning outcome. Yes, it seems common sense. The classroom with fifteen students usually looks better and more controlled than classroom with thirty kids. But is that enough?

We, at some level, have experience regarding this matter. In my country, the average class size is 35-40 students in public school, which contrasts with private school where small class size is the selling point. However, even small or large size classroom, there would always have one or some disruptive, negative behaved students who think acting out in class is much more 'cool'. So the role of teacher is critical in giving instruction, creating an interactive environment in order to encourage student’s engagement.

Smaller classes are better, but only if the teacher is a very good one. In other words, class size matters, but teacher effectiveness matters more.  In addition, learning is hard work, usually accomplished by people who are willing to do it. So the importance of sorting students, teacher quality, and other factors must take into account.