You've been living in a dream world, Neo. This is the world as it exists today.
Teachers have a tendency to complain about class size, and I am no exception. We (should) know that, from a pedagogical perspective, the ideal class size for foreign language learning hovers around 12-15 students--a perfect figure, but not feasible, for tuition would skyrocket (I have taken and taught foreign language classes in six
different countries over the last 12 years, and the only time there were less than 20+ students in a class was—hmmm, never.). Around 20 students per class would be acceptable, but even most English Departments (in regard to writing classes) in the US cap enrollment around 25-30. And at other Japan universities, class size tends to
be significantly above what we deal with. Time for a reality check?
6 Comments:
I'd consider 30 students perfectly manageable at this point. As it is I have classes with double that number of students, and in subjects that work best with a lot of "hands-on" teacher interaction or written work (which becomes impossible when every assignment results in 60+ papers to mark). Ever teach a class of "repeater" students with those kinds of numbers? You're lucky if you can keep track of who is attending or not, much less motivate them to try harder.
I have to agree on this point, as a student and not a teacher. I have studied language at K-G, and at medium-sized public and a small private college. It is beneficial to the student, however impractical, for there to be more focused attention to ensure correct forms. It's too easy to accidentally overlook mistakes thereby allowing 'incorrect' speakers to slip through thinking they may be doing it properly.
I agree with your statements. I just thought I'd comment to say that where I go to college, the University of Pittsburgh, we have Japanese classes with 15 students or less. In my class there are only 12 students.
Great article! Thanks.
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