Research shows that smaller
class sizes are directly related to higher student achievements.
The benefits of keeping class numbers low are indisputable for students of all
ages, yet public high schools in the Greater Toronto Area continue to contain
classes with large numbers of students. Toronto independent high schools, on
the other hand, have historically kept classes small. They know that learning
flourishes in settings where students and teachers have enough time and space
to do their work.
Advantages of Small Classes
In a smaller class, the
teacher can use more effective teaching techniques. Open-ended discussions, for
example, are far more productive in a small-group setting. Complex projects can
be assigned, as the teacher will have time to help students on an individual
basis. With fewer students, a teacher can assign more writing projects and
provide more in-depth feedback. Small class sizes also allow teachers to
recognize learning difficulties early on and address them more easily. Special
programs can be created and implemented efficiently, which would be near to
impossible in a large class setting. Studies have proven that a teacher can
cover far more material in a class with fewer students.
One of the major advantages
of fewer students per class is that the teacher forms closer relationships with
his or her students. This enables the teacher to identify each student's
strengths and weaknesses so that the curriculum material can be geared towards
maximizing individual learning. The teacher is able to ensure that each student
understands the class work and any homework assignments. This personal
attention can give students the confidence and ability for great achievements.
A second concern is the
student-to-faculty ratio. Many think this phrase refers to smaller class sizes,
but in fact this number reflects the total number of students in the school in
relation to the total number of faculty. This includes librarians, guidance counselors, and other school resource
personnel. Top Toronto independent high schools work towards lowering both
class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios to ensure that all students receive
the attention they require from school staff.
Learning by Doing
One
of the best teaching strategies is to allow students to "learn by doing.” If
students are studying a scientific principle, it’s far more beneficial for them
to do an experiment themselves than it is for them to merely watch the teacher
demonstrate one. Sitting by and taking notes leads to a much shallower
understanding of the concept, and chances are, details will be forgotten. Once
a student actually experiences something, both learning and retention is much
stronger.
With evidence mounting that
small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratios improve student academic
achievement, it's clear that parents should investigate Torontoindependent schools. Why not give your child the kind of education that will
help him/her maximize learning and achieve academic success?
Education is the key to a
child's future success and independent schools are in the forefront of
educational innovation.