The Challenge of Large Class Sizes: Impact on Personalized Learning
In UNBREAKABLE Episode 19, we began a deep dive into one of the most significant structural hurdles in the Nigerian education system: The Large Class Size. While we advocate for student-centered teaching, we must address the reality that many teachers are facing classrooms packed beyond capacity, making individual attention nearly impossible.
Defining the Student-Centered Method
As discussed on Passion 94.5 FM, the Student-Centered Method (or Personalized Learning) is an approach that tailors the educational experience to the individual. Instead of the teacher being the sole "fountain of knowledge," they become a facilitator, helping each student navigate their own learning style, interests, and abilities.
How Large Classes Undermine Integrity
When class sizes are too large, the "Student-Centered" dream can quickly become a "Teacher-Centered" nightmare. The consequences include:
- Teacher Burnout: Managing 100+ students leads to physical and mental exhaustion, making it harder for teachers to resist the "easy way out" during exam seasons.
- Hidden Learning Gaps: In a crowd, a student's lack of understanding goes unnoticed. These gaps eventually lead to a "fear of failure," which is the primary driver of malpractice.
- Passive Learning: Large classes often force a "lecture-only" style, where students simply memorize facts rather than understanding concepts.
A Three-Tiered Solution
Solving the crisis of large class sizes requires a unified effort from three distinct groups:
1. Policymakers
There must be a deliberate investment in school infrastructure. We cannot expect 21st-century learning in 19th-century overcrowded spaces. Policies should focus on reducing the teacher-to-student ratio and funding adaptive learning technologies.
2. Educators
Teachers must be equipped with Adaptive Learning skills. This involves using grouping strategies and peer-to-peer tutoring to ensure that even in a large room, every student has a "learning partner."
3. Researchers
We need evidence-based recommendations. Researchers should evaluate competency-based progression models that allow students to move at their own pace, rather than being forced through a rigid, time-based curriculum.
The Path Forward
At the UDIMKING Education Foundation, we believe that if we can personalize the learning experience, we can produce self-confident students. A self-confident student does not need to cheat. They know their worth, they know their work, and they stand UNBREAKABLE.
Join the Conversation
Are you a teacher struggling with a large class? Or a parent concerned about your child's progress in an overcrowded school?
Tune in to Passion 94.5 FM every Saturday at 10 AM as we continue to provide practical strategies for modern Nigerian education.