Search citation statements
Paper Sections
Citation Types
Year Published
Publication Types
Relationship
Authors
Journals
Inevitably having large‐size classes creates a huge number of challenges but also benefits that motivate the higher education institutes to recruit large‐size student bodies. This paper aims to identify the focus of scholars in this field, how the concerns have been addressed as well as a pedagogic basis for large‐class management and delivery, then further to determine gaps in the existing literature of large‐size classes. Using PRISMA, this research systematically reviews 131 articles between 1976 and 2024 on an international basis. Building upon the findings of the systematic literature review (SLR), the study introduces the Input‐Process‐Output‐Outcome (IPOO) model of education. Then, the research discusses a range of strategies proposed in academic research to effectively address the challenges posed by large class sizes. These strategies include pedagogical approaches/strategies, perception and behaviour‐based means, technological tools/strategies, and perception‐driven digitised strategies. The article identifies research gaps in the existing literature, particularly regarding stakeholders' perceptions of large class sizes. It emphasises the need for further investigation into the diverse perspectives held by stakeholders regarding the pros and cons of large class environments. The findings underscore the importance of challenging negative and neutral perceptions of large class sizes. Additionally, the study highlights the role of marketing strategies in shaping perceptions of class size and suggests avenues for future research in education business. Finally, the results of the bibliometric analysis reveal specific geographical or disciplinary focuses. The study provides insights for policymakers on developing effective policies to manage large class sizes and suggests future research avenues in education business and policy. Context and implicationsRationale for this studyMotivated by the increasing prevalence of large class sizes in higher education institutions (HEIs) globally, driven by factors such as massification and marketisation. It aims to examine (dis)advantages associated with large classes while considering the diverse perspectives of stakeholders involved. Conducting a SLR and introducing the IPOO model, it aims to pinpoint gaps in managing large classes effectively.Why the new findings matterThe study addresses research gaps, particularly in understanding how perceptions shape educational practices. By highlighting the need to challenge negative perceptions, it emphasises their impact on outcomes and institutional strategies. Additionally, it identifies the role of marketing strategies in shaping perceptions and provides insights for education business.Implications for policy makers, stakeholders and the general publicThe study's implications span education sectors: practitioners can glean insights for managing large classes. Policymakers can utilise this research to inform the development of policies pertaining to class size regulations and resource allocation, ensuring that HEIs receive the necessary support to address challenges arising from large class sizes. Researchers are prompted to study perceptions surrounding class sizes. Funders can support research on class size perceptions, aiding evidence‐based decision making and resource distribution. Finally, the general public can benefit from increased awareness of the complexities surrounding class size dynamics, fostering a broader understanding of the challenges faced by educators and institutions in delivering quality education in large class settings.
Inevitably having large‐size classes creates a huge number of challenges but also benefits that motivate the higher education institutes to recruit large‐size student bodies. This paper aims to identify the focus of scholars in this field, how the concerns have been addressed as well as a pedagogic basis for large‐class management and delivery, then further to determine gaps in the existing literature of large‐size classes. Using PRISMA, this research systematically reviews 131 articles between 1976 and 2024 on an international basis. Building upon the findings of the systematic literature review (SLR), the study introduces the Input‐Process‐Output‐Outcome (IPOO) model of education. Then, the research discusses a range of strategies proposed in academic research to effectively address the challenges posed by large class sizes. These strategies include pedagogical approaches/strategies, perception and behaviour‐based means, technological tools/strategies, and perception‐driven digitised strategies. The article identifies research gaps in the existing literature, particularly regarding stakeholders' perceptions of large class sizes. It emphasises the need for further investigation into the diverse perspectives held by stakeholders regarding the pros and cons of large class environments. The findings underscore the importance of challenging negative and neutral perceptions of large class sizes. Additionally, the study highlights the role of marketing strategies in shaping perceptions of class size and suggests avenues for future research in education business. Finally, the results of the bibliometric analysis reveal specific geographical or disciplinary focuses. The study provides insights for policymakers on developing effective policies to manage large class sizes and suggests future research avenues in education business and policy. Context and implicationsRationale for this studyMotivated by the increasing prevalence of large class sizes in higher education institutions (HEIs) globally, driven by factors such as massification and marketisation. It aims to examine (dis)advantages associated with large classes while considering the diverse perspectives of stakeholders involved. Conducting a SLR and introducing the IPOO model, it aims to pinpoint gaps in managing large classes effectively.Why the new findings matterThe study addresses research gaps, particularly in understanding how perceptions shape educational practices. By highlighting the need to challenge negative perceptions, it emphasises their impact on outcomes and institutional strategies. Additionally, it identifies the role of marketing strategies in shaping perceptions and provides insights for education business.Implications for policy makers, stakeholders and the general publicThe study's implications span education sectors: practitioners can glean insights for managing large classes. Policymakers can utilise this research to inform the development of policies pertaining to class size regulations and resource allocation, ensuring that HEIs receive the necessary support to address challenges arising from large class sizes. Researchers are prompted to study perceptions surrounding class sizes. Funders can support research on class size perceptions, aiding evidence‐based decision making and resource distribution. Finally, the general public can benefit from increased awareness of the complexities surrounding class size dynamics, fostering a broader understanding of the challenges faced by educators and institutions in delivering quality education in large class settings.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.