Does class size matter in education quality?

dubai — Some education pundits say that smaller class sizes are linked to positive results, including better test scores, fewer dropouts and higher graduation rates.

But there is also a downside to it, as reducing the student-teacher ratio can translate into higher cost of education, thus reducing accessibility especially to disadvantaged children.

Reacting to parents’ observations to reduce the number of students in a class, Dr Abdulla Al Karam, chairman of the Board of Directors and KHDA Director General, said that the factor of class size is highly debatable.

“People would argue that a smaller size means better quality education, but some will also argue that bigger class sizes actually means more affordable education,” he told Khaleej Times.

“What we are looking at is the output and quality of education whilst keeping in mind the health and safety of students,” Al Karam

Big schools have proven outstanding than smaller-sized schools.” Dr Abdulla Al Karam, KHDA Director General

added. “So if you build a big school that can accommodate many students, that’s fine since the size would be determined by health and safety standards instructed by the municipality and building regulation.

“Regarding the head count, it does not actually make sense as some big schools have proven outstanding than smaller-sized schools. Schools with big populations can excel, especially if there is a focus on and tremendous use of technology.

“People have different opinions at both end of spectrum, but at KHDA, we always monitor the school’s output and the children’s health and safety,” he concluded.

angel@khaleejtimes.com