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

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of large classes in the English language teaching-learning process in Ecuadorian high schools. The research was performed with five groups of ninth grade basic education students in a public high school in the city of Cañar. To collect data, three brief questionnaires were given to each participant contributors were instructed to respond by giving their opinion based on how satisfied they were with the different statements presented in relation to academic, social and psychological issues. The results indicated that in the instructional aspect students agreed with the methodology and class activities used, while in the social factor, respondents did not see an appropriate balance of interaction between teachers and students. Finally, when considering the psychological aspect, half of the students surveyed stated that they felt relaxed because they go unnoticed, which shows a lack of engagement in the learning process. Moreover, students did not feel confident with their knowledge; therefore, they felt limited when talking in front of their peers.