The influence of large classes in the English language teaching-learning process in Ecuadorian high schools

Abstract

This research is about the influence of large classes in the English language teaching-learning process in Ecuadorian high schools. The purpose of this study is to determine what instructional, social, and psychological implications large classes have on the teaching-learning process. This research took place in two high schools in the City of Machala. It is focused on students from secondary schools of 8th, 9th, and 10th grades, and 1rst and 2nd “bachillerato”. The methods applied to carry out this research were qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative analysis describes the teaching approaches and methods used in large classes, and other aspects such as class size, managing learning, managing large classes, activities for working with large classes, classroom space and seating arrangement, and different levels of proficiency. The quantitative analysis describes results of questionnaires taken to students based on academic, social and psychological aspects. This research demonstrates that teaching English to a large number of students has limitations, and in order to face them, teachers must be trained in methods and techniques that can help to succeed in the English language-learning process.