Teaching large classes

• Many instructors who teach large classes think that they can use the same techniques as when they teach regular sized classes. However, the rule “more of the same” does not apply when instructors work with large student body.
  
  
• There are teaching techniques as well as class management issues that apply best to large sized classes.
  
• Those who teach for the first time a large class usually think that general teaching techniques and class management rules that are used in teaching average sized classes are also safe to be used in large classes. Novice instructors for large classes think the only difference is that one teaches the same way but in front of more students. Often that is not true, and novice instructors learn this very soon. The rule “more of the same” does not apply in teaching large classes. An instructor feels safe and can enter in front of 20 to 40 students in the first day of class with a half completed syllabus. The same instructor can brush of the student who asks the question about when exactly will be the first due date. However in a large class (anywhere above 100 students), the same question will create a tornado of problems if the syllabus does not present clear rules and responses to common class management questions. To teach well a large class requires from the instructor good organization skills.
• Teaching large classes requires preparation and good strategies. No matter what is the teaching style of an instructor, when she or he comes into a large class the essential is to have a clear syllabus, good planning, and a good handle on classroom management and organization. If in a class of 40-50 one is able to shift ground rules in the middle of the semester, this becomes an extreme effort, or a complete disaster when in class are close to 400-500 students. When working with large classes the instructor must think and adapt her or his teaching techniques appropriately.