Problem:
Advantages of small classes Being in a small class, like being in a small school, is beneficial for children's social development, particularly in the early grades. Research in the United States and other countries, including the United Kingdom and Israel, has demonstrated that in small classes teacher-child contacts are more frequent and personalized and children are better behaved, interact more with their peers, and are less likely to be victimized (Blatchford et al., 2011; Finn & Pannozzo, 2004; Khoury-Kassabri et al., 2004). Students in small classes contribute more to class activities, pay more attention in class, are less likely to "fool around" and be disruptive, and exhibit less antisocial behavior and more prosocial behavior (Finnet al., 2003). Small class size is also associated with a more positive emotional climate in elementary school classes (Pianta et al., 2007). Smaller classes appear to promote an atmosphere in which students are more supportive and caring about each other. Not surprisingly, teachers in smaller classes are more satisfied as well (Blatchford, 2005). Notably, researchers and educators have expected that the impact of smaller class sizes on the social and emotional climate of the classroom (e.g., greater student engagement, less time managing problem behavior) should also result in greater academic achievement. Need Assignment Help?