Question

Read the scenario and answer the question- A researcher plans to do an experiment in the college setting concerning the effects of class size on attendance in a first year law course. He has four levels of size, namely, 15, 25, 40, and 60 students. Four colleges are involved in the study, each having eight first-year law classes, two of each class size. The researcher can assign students at random to a class within a college, but he cannot assign students randomly to a college. Two law professors are used in each college. All professors teach four classes; the dependent variable is grades measured after one semester. Discuss the problems of control in this situation. Consider possible uncontrolled variables and variables that are or might be controlled. Is there a possibility of confounding of variables in this research situation? State one or more hypotheses for this experiment.

Answer 1

Relationships between class size and the number of students who enroll for the law course:

There is a big relationship between class size and the number of students who enroll for the law course. The class size is an important factor in determining the outcome of student’s performance. The class size can also be directly determined by policies that are formulated. This is important for individuals who are most affected by the large size of the class, for example low income as well as minority students. There are different approaches that can be used to explain the impact of class size on performance and achievements of student.

The first research sets to look out for co-relations between the results of students and also the size of the class. This research sets to enquire whether poor low achievers are placed in the small classes that would result to poor performance. The research as examines whether the teachers are obliged to use different types of pedagogies in a relatively large class. There search are seeks to understand whether experienced and better teachers are allocated to larger classes.

There are eight outcomes which is associated with large classes. These outcomes can be controlled and uncontrolled

Controlled valuables:

High reliance on the lecture method of instruction by the faculty

Lack of interaction between students and lecturers

Reduced thinking depth by the students

Narrow course objectives and assignments

Low learning levels and poor academic performance

Reduced satisfaction with learning experiences

Low evaluation of course instruction

Uncontrolled valuables:

Students are less active in the learning process

Reduced thinking depth by the students