Over-Crowded classroom

Over-Crowded classroom

 

A place where learners exceeded that then the recommended capacity for which the class is designed. Teaching a large number of students in one classroom is difficult for both teachers and students. The word over-crowded shows negativity and it also affects classroom management.

5 ways that over-crowded classrooms affect learning

(1)   Greater noise and distractions

Having more of anything can lead to chaos. An ideal classroom would be limited to 15 to 20 students, but many classrooms today have over 30 or even 40 students. Naturally, the more students there are, the noiser it gets even in classrooms that are effectively managed. The increased noise level can make it harder for kids to concentrate, affecting learning outcomes, and more difficult for teachers to focus, leading to more stress and possible burnout.

 

(2)    Less personalized instruction

   The greater the number of students in a classroom, the less attention each student can receive from teacher. This particularly affects students who are struggling and need the extra attention. This impacts learning outcomes, as these students are more likely to have lower scores/grades as a result.

 

(3)   Increase in disciplinary problems

  Overcrowding can lead to chaotic classroom environment that is more difficult for the teachers to manage. The increased number of students leads to a greater likelihood of disruptive behavior and conflicts among students, especially with fewer resources to accommodate the extra students. Teachers in over-crowded classrooms often devote more time to dealing with behavioral issues and less time to teaching something no teacher desires.

 

(4)  Poor building or environmental conditions 

Schools with overcrowded classrooms are also more likely to have poor building or environmental conditions. Overcrowded schools were more likely than schools that were either under enrolled or within 5% of their capacity to have at least one building feature in less than adequate condition. This could include poor air conditioning and heating systems, lighting, ventilation, indoor air quality, acoustics or noise control and physical security.

 

(5)  Increase in illness risk

The poor building conditions found in over-crowded schools also pose health risks for students and teachers. Poor ventilation, lighting, acoustics and classroom temperatures can expose students to allergens, pollutants and even chemicals that affect health, attendance and performance. Of course, in terms of the ongoing fight against covid-19, overcrowded classrooms don’t lend themselves to social distancing and therefore make it easier for germs to spread. This has become a major concern for parents, teachers and students.

 

How to manage an over-crowded classroom?

There are three tips on how to manage an over-crowded classroom.

(1) Keep everyone busy 

The more students you have in your classroom, the easier it is for a few distracted kids to derail your lesson. Because of this, its absolutely essential that you keep the whole class busy as much as possible.

(2) Use flexible grouping

All classes have4 students at different ability levels who learn at different paces. This becomes even more pronounced when there are more students in the class. Because a large size requires greater student independence, put a lot of thought into how you want to group students for particular lessons. Don’t be afraid to move kids from group to group depending upon their ability for a specific assignment. If students are not engaged, if the work is either too challenging or boring then classroom management will become an issue. Flexible grouping keeps students working on tasks that are just right for them, and it keeps you in touch with their individual needs.

(3) Keep Lessons short

It can often be harder to keep a larger group engaged in an extended lesson. Because of this, its important to be strategic about how you structure whole-class instruction. You’ll often find that you can streamline your lessons and keep your students attention more effectively. Of course, small-group lessons will also need to be short in a large classroom so you can fit in time to work with as many groups as possible. Don’t be afraid to practice your lessons and time yourself. You’d be surprised at how trimming down your instruction can make all the difference.