Chapter 3: Smaller Classes, Lower Salaries? The Effects of Class Size on Teacher Labor Markets

Abstract

Though controversy about the costs and effects of change remains, the range of differences is narrowing and the options are becoming clearer. 1 However, the existing research generally neglects the overall effects of smaller class sizes on teachers. Current literature tends to concentrate on teaching techniques, such as classroom management and time on-task, to which achievement gains can largely be attributed. But how does class size affect overall teacher satisfaction? Do teachers simply enjoy their jobs more when their classes are smaller? If so, how does that affect teacher salaries and the labor market?