Size alone makes small classes better for kids

[Gwen in TX]

This article appeared in USA Today, this Tuesday. Thought it was interesting that the teacher didn't necessarily change or improve anything, but the students still did better. Of course the teacher's unions are on this band wagon. I wonder if it will alter anyone's perception of homeschooling - small class size being more important than teacher's qualifications / style/ method.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2008-03-24-small-classes_N.htm

[Danestress]

I wonder if it will alter anyone's perception of homeschooling - small class size being more important than teacher's qualifications / style/ method.

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I think the conclusion you've reached is not apparent in the artilce. More important?

[Margaret in CO]

Well, we have some of the smallest class sizes in CO--16-18:1! And our ps is constantly in trouble with the state. Our alternative school has a ratio of 7:1 and are on probation, once again. Of course, the ps teachers fight long and hard every contract time to continue these tiny classes and to make them smaller, but it hasn't been shown that they increase student achievement. They DO however, increase numbers of teachers... :rolleyes: