It is important to note that different disciplines and levels consider different sizes of classes as “large.” For example, in languages, a class of 40 students is really large, while 40 students in a mid-level history lecture is about average. Most of the examples listed here have 100 or more students per section, but most of these strategies will work in courses of any size. Teaching large classes can be intimidating at first, but with proper planning and organization, large classes can be an incredibly positive experience for both students and instructors.
Here are some resources that outline strategies that can be used in large classes
- Teaching Large Classes– Vanderbilt University
- Strategies for Teaching Large Classes– Faculty Focus
- Strategies for Teaching Large Undergraduate Classes– Hanover Research
Examples of Student Assessment in Large Classes:
- Challenge Assignments: STAT 323 (70-110)
- Inquiry Project in MATH 205 (100 students)
- Effective Exam Questions: GLGY 323 (100+ students)
- Learning through Assessment in CPSC 217 (100-120 students)
- Team Quizzes: ENPE 533 (120 students)
- Two- Stage Testing in BIOL 315 (120-170 students)
- Digital Poster Project: EDUC 201 (190 students)
- Self-Assessment and Low Stakes Assessments in HTST 201 (200+ students)
- TA Training in Junior Physics Courses (200 + students)