Reducing class size is one of the most popular education policies among families, teachers and governments. However, its effects on learning are generally small or nil. It is also a very costly policy, as it requires hiring more teachers (70-80% of education spending goes on salaries) and having more classrooms. In Spain, it is crucial to determine whether this policy is the best use of the budget, in a context of growing fiscal pressure and falling birth rates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To provide a solid empirical answer, a study has been carried out using information provided by the Community of Madrid for the period 2016-2019. The study uses administrative microdata linked to census surveys of students, teachers, families and school principals. The identification strategy draws on a well-established methodology: maximum class-size thresholds (30 pupils in Spain during 2012-2019) generate quasi-random variation in class size. When the limit is exceeded, the group is split: a school with 31 enrolments forms two classes of 15 and 16 pupils, whereas another with 30 keeps a single class. This discontinuity makes it possible to estimate causal effects free of socioeconomic selection bias, and the richness of the available data, together with the statistical power used, allows for a comprehensive analysis of mechanisms. This study is the most complete evaluation of class size in Spain and a pioneering benchmark internationally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The impact of class size is measured by what happens inside the classroom (disruption, individualised instruction and organisation), as well as by academic and non-academic outcomes (achievement, grade repetition, well-being). The most relevant conclusions are summarised below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The study yields at least five key lessons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reducing class size is one of the most popular education policies among families, teachers and governments. However, its effects on learning are generally small or nil. It is also a very costly policy, as it requires hiring more teachers (70-80% of education spending goes on salaries) and having more classrooms. In Spain, it is crucial […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":12963,"template":"","acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n