This review of research on class size is organized into two parts. Part 1 presents a summary list of true statements with respect to the central topic of this study. The statements are divided into three sections: (a) class size and pupil achievement, (b) class size and teaching procedures, and (c) teacher load. Some statements can be accepted as…

Fourteen dimensions of the social climate of learning of high school classes were examined in their relationships to the size of the classes concerned. Two data samples included in the study were 149 classes participating in the 1967 evaluation of the Harvard Project Physics course and 61 classes in the Montreal Metropolitan area in a variety of…

This study determines empirically the relationship between college teachers' classroom performance and their involvement in research. The study is based on a national sample of approximately 5,000 faculty members in 16 colleges. Ratings of classroom performance were derived from published course critiques and scholarship ratings are based on a…

Based on a review of the literature made by graduate students in the School of Education of the University of North Carolina, it is concluded that reduction in class size has no bearing on pupil achievement, unless it is accompanied by special circumstances. (KC)

This article attempts to clarify the interdependent nature of curricular and financial aspects of school organization, then to provide a conceptual tool to help administrators consider both aspects concurrently. (Author)

The present study examines the following hypotheses: (1) James' Classroom Inventory to Describe the Use of Physical Space is suitable for use in a Caribbean school setting; and (2) the size of the Jamaican primary classroom bears no relationship to the number of children to be accommodated. (Author/AM)

A theoretical model of the relationship between class size and achievement is proposed, based on the assumption that a teacher adjusts the style and pace of a lesson to the least able student. The model accounts for features of the Glass and Smith meta-analysis of research. (Author/MT)

Praises United States Secretary of Education William J. Bennett's 1986 report as a readable, provocative document that restores central importance of elementary education. Disagrees with two improvement suggestions: elimination of teaching experience for principals and disregard of class size as an important variable. Sees improved instructional…

Discusses a study that explored the student achievement differentials in small (fewer than 50) versus large (more than 50) classes. Determined that there was no significant difference in the perception of learning between the two class sections. (JOW)

Small classes in grades K-3 boost student academic performance in all subjects and in prosocial behavior. Results are both short- and long-term. One study explored the theory that a major cause behind improved academic achievement involves improved student behavior, which increases student engagement in the classroom. Two other studies provide…

The main purpose of this study was to examine the differences between the pupil-teacher ratio (PTR) and the actual and average class size (CS) at the elementary level in public schools in a single state (Michigan) and to clarify the ramifications for educational leaders. Another purpose of the study was to clarify the referents for the concepts of…

The effectiveness of the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), North Carolina, plan to reduce class size was evaluated, assessing program implementation and the effects of class size reduction on academic achievement. For the 1999-2000 school year, North Carolina received federal funds targeting class size reduction under the Class Size…

The level of carbon dioxide in a classroom can have a significant negative effect on teaching and learning. Carbon dioxide (CO2) level is affected by class size and time of day. Six urban schools were studied to characterize the effects of these three factors on different class sizes. Carbon monoxide, CO2, temperature, and relative humidity…

This policy brief draws on research and evaluations of efforts in Tennessee, California, and Wisconsin to describe different approaches to reducing class size in kindergarten through third grade. Tennessee implemented a randomized experiment to investigate the effectiveness of smaller classes; California used a statewide approach; and Wisconsin…

Suggests that, although collective negotiations have had little overall effect on teachers' salaries, they have had significant impact on other issues. (JF)