Overcrowding is a serious menace faced by educators and schools worldwide. It is a challenge for teachers to pay attention to and facilitate the learning of so many students simultaneously.

1. How to promote learning and manage an
overcrowded classroom?
Overcrowding is a serious menace faced by educators and schools worldwide. It is a
challenge for teachers to pay attention to and facilitate the learning of so many students
simultaneously. It has been proven that the ideal class size to enable education is about
15-20. Whereas most classrooms have an average of 30-40 students, if not more. Our
classrooms are bursting at the seams, and teachers are increasingly ill-equipped to deal
with this situation. Teachers or students are not the cause of this problem, but they are the
ones who suffer the consequences.
Identifying the problem
Overcrowding brings with it a host of problems. It is essential to take stock of them first
so that teachers can be equipped to deal with them effectively. Here are a few significant
problems caused by overcrowding:
 The strain on resources: Schools already have trouble allocating resources for each
student. In an overcrowded classroom, the problem becomes even more apparent.
Especially with science lab equipment or computer systems, many students end up with
the short end of the stick.
 Discipline: More is not always merrier! Every student brings with them their problems
and personalities. When they are packed into a small space, the probability of conflicts
and disruptive behavior increases. The classroom also gets much louder. This usually
makes it harder for teachers to do their job.
 Insufficient facetime: With larger class sizes, it becomes more difficult for the teacher
to give small groups or individual students instructions or feedback. It is also more
difficult for the teacher to get to know their students. As they cannot identify the strengths
and weaknesses of their students, they are also unable to provide more personalized
lessons. Those who need more individual attention fall even further behind as teachers
cannot devote much time to them.
 Teachers are more stressed-out than ever. When there are more students to deal
with, there are also more tests and assignments to correct. Dealing with so many students
in a class, and with all the legwork that comes with it can be exhausting for a teacher.

2. While a real solution to this problem is not possible without institutional support and
funding, here’s how teachers can turn this into a glass-half-full kind of situation. No one
solution fits everyone, but a few steps like these can aid the learning process:
Optimizing the space
Space is hard to come by in an overcrowded classroom. But you can optimize the space
you have by distributing amenities and resources like dustbins, sharpeners, craft material,
notice boards, etc., to different corners of the room. This ensures that all the students are
not crowded in one area. Chuck everything you don’t need. Also, seldom-used items can
be placed in storage until they are required.
Involve the students in deciding how to utilize the space they have. This lets them be more
invested in their learning. Once they understand why things are placed in a certain way,
they are more likely to be cooperative with each other in using the space.
Independent learning
While students benefit most from one-on-one interaction with their teachers, one must
consider the alternatives. More independent learning opportunities can reduce the burden
on teachers. They also stimulate curiosity and empower students to seek out learning.
Collaborative projects can also be beneficial. When the teacher cannot cater to every
student, they can help each other when they work in smaller groups. Create opportunities
for collaborative projects and assignments. Create groups or partners beforehand so that
children can help each other learn and grow. Make the classroom more student-centric by
designing creative and engaging lessons. When students are active, they can absorb
concepts better and develop a healthy attitude towards learning. Wherever possible, use
digital tools for collaboration and partnership. Tools like Google Docs allow students to
work simultaneously on projects or assignments.
Create your language
It can be challenging for teachers to communicate with each student on every matter.
Setting a precedent on how important communication takes place in the class can save a
lot of time. Having phrases like ‘Can you repeat…’, ‘I did not understand…’ ‘How do I…’
can help students express themselves efficiently. You can also set aside time to discuss

3. which learning techniques help them better, which creates more problems for them, helps
them learn better, etc. It may not be possible for a teacher to interact with every student
each day. But having sessions like these help the students express themselves. The teacher
also can figure out better strategies to facilitate lessons. The students feel heard and
assured that their needs are taken into account. Creating a sense of control in a chaotic,
crowded classroom is a massive achievement for both the students and teachers.
Plan ahead
Planning and preparation are crucial to managing an overcrowded classroom. Plan short
and engaging lessons for the class. It is ideal for displaying the class’s schedule to get to
work as soon as they enter the class. Take some time to establish routines and explain
rules at the beginning of the year. Having set rules makes the class much more
manageable. When students know what they are required to do and why you are less likely
to face discipline problems later, create groups or seating charts based on ability levels.
For suitable assignments, create mixed ability groups to create more learning and
collaborative opportunities. Rotate seats whenever necessary, and make sure to take the
children’s preferences into account as well.
Crowded classrooms have become the norm, and it looks like the situation isn’t going to
change anytime soon. It is best to adapt to the problem and try to make it the best.
Strategies like the ones above can go a long way in promoting learning in a crowded
classroom. Are you an educator struggling to encourage learning in an overcrowded
classroom? Let us know about your experiences!