The value of smaller class sizes is one of the key benefits when enrolling in a 2-year educational program. For today’s busy student, having the ability to get to class is essential, which is why short-term, flexible education works so well. Though once the student is in that environment, he or she needs to be able to get the most out of it. Smaller class sizes contribute to this success. The advantage of a smaller school plays more of an impact than many recognize.
ASKING QUESTIONS AND RECEIVING ANSWERS
Some schools have large classes — with anywhere from 100 to 300 students in attendance. In this vast space, it is nearly impossible for a student to be able to ask a simple question. If every student did, class time would run out long before the topic was covered. Still, being able to ask a question is an essential part of the learning process, as it shows the student is engaging with the material. When such a large group is present, many students might shy away from raising their hand — it can be intimidating to ask a question in a large group.
IMPROVE CLASSROOM DISCUSSIONS
In smaller classes, there is also the ability to have classroom discussions. Discussions are what help foster the growth and learning process in the brain. It allows for the student to not just ask questions but to converse about the topic to fully grasp all sides. There may be some questioning about the topic or recent news brought up about it. These types of both formal and informal classroom discussions enable students to gather the information they desire.
DIRECT INTERACTION WITH PEERS
College class size also plays a role in the way students interact with one another. For example, in 2-year colleges with smaller class sizes, there is more peer-to-peer interaction both within the classroom and outside of it. Students get to know their peers, which can help with creating better bonds with their education. The benefits here even extend further. When students are supported by peers and have these types of interactions, they are empowered to be confident outside the classroom, as well. Such peer-to-peer interactions can help students be comfortable enough to ask questions or share their opinion. Likewise, they benefit from hearing their peers’ ideas.
MORE DIVERSITY IN ASSIGNMENTS
When a teacher has 300 students in one classroom, he or she must give assignments that will benefit most of those individuals. In a small classroom, the teacher can modify assignments to meet individual needs more effectively. For example, during class, students may discuss a specific concept not originally on the lesson plan. The professor has the ability to modify classroom work and supplementary assignments to reflect the needs of those students in the classroom that day. This can help ensure every student gets the type of support and reinforcement he or she needs — not what most need.
MORE POSITIVE INTERACTIONS
Student and professor one-on-one time grows when the college class size is smaller. This is one of the key small class size benefits — there’s more time for the professor to interact with the student. This increases the amount of opportunities for positive interactions. Students need positive attention in their classroom to encourage them and keep them interested. For some students, no interaction with a teacher or limited one-on-one contact can hinder their interest in that subject. However, when there is more recognition and personal support, the student can feel valued and engaged with the classroom. This ultimately creates a positive experience, even when the coursework is challenging.
BETTER TEACHING METHODS
In a large college class size, the educator uses the most effective model of teaching for a large group. Again, professors focus on the big picture here — doing what is best for most people. Though when class size is reduced, the professor is more empowered. There is time and ability to modify the educational methods used to address more of the individual learning styles of the students in the class. When a professor has the ability to provide the right type of learning method to each student, that student benefits with better understanding. Further, the instructor can employ more creative teaching measures.
As you consider where to attend school, take a closer look at 2-year colleges with smaller class sizes. When you do, you will quickly recognize the benefits. In this environment, there is more time and greater access to resources to help you flourish. Many times, this is the type of environment students need to succeed — especially when creating a long-term career path for themselves. These smaller classes offer the ability to embrace the material more fully to help the student get the best education possible.