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The arguments for reducing class size are at best mixed, according to a new report published by Brookings Institution. Large reductions in class size (seven to ten fewer students) appear to increase student achievement, particularly among younger and poorer students, but it is unclear whether smaller reductions have any positive impact. Moreover, reducing class size is very expensive, so a key question is whether the additional expenditure is the best use of scarce funds. The report also points out that increasing class size could save significant amounts of money and might even raise test scores, if the least effective teachers were laid off to achieve the larger class sizes.

You may also read the full report online here.