Let’s talk about class size

My elementary school class was small in comparison to most.

My class consisted of a whopping total of 17 students. There were exactly 12 girls and 5 boys. We all knew each other quite well and enjoyed each other's company for the most part. Since it was a smaller class size, it gave me a better opportunity to get to know my peers and gain from their feedback on assignments and presentations. Additionally, each student's input is recognized by the teacher, especially during group discussions.

I can confirm that smaller groups provide more opportunities for collaborative learning. I learned plenty of useful information from each and every one of my classmates in elementary school. The fact is, students learn more quickly and perform better in smaller groups. Less than 20 students in a class allows for more individualized focus, greater participation, and improved teacher-student communication. In comparison to students in large classes, these students typically experience more chances for hands-on learning and receive more feedback from their instructors and peers.

Daily coursework in a smaller classroom setting can also be modified to meet the requirements of each student. A small group of students allows the teachers to become more quickly acquainted with them and then adjust their teaching style accordingly. By the teacher customizing their learning curriculum, the students can move on to the next course without having to review material they have already mastered. 

In a small class, it is easier for students to participate and pay attention — because it is more apparent when they don't. The resulting benefit that they will learn more in smaller class sizes because they are more driven to participate is also a nice. Students can feel more comfortable to discuss ideas and pose questions about subjects they don't fully grasp.

I was always very aware of my presence and participation in class in relation to its size. This caused me to contribute more of my opinions and urged me to be truly immersed in class discussions, in addition to completely understanding the lessons. 

Finally, students have the ability to actually do the work rather than just learn about it in a smaller class setting. Smaller classes are better suited for hands-on activities that let students engage with the topics they are learning about firsthand. The learning process is enhanced because many students learn better by doing rather than by simply hearing a teacher discuss a subject. Smaller class sizes provide for deeper interpersonal relationships between the teachers and students and among the students themselves, improved overall class work, and reinforced learning.

Talya Lippman is student contributor for the Bellmore and Merrick Heralds.