ONE of the cornerstones of effective education, as identified by scholars worldwide, is maintaining a healthy and productive teacher-student ratio.
A suboptimal ratio can hinder the personal attention that each child receives, leading to poorer academic performance. Many schools today are grappling with this challenge, emphasizing the urgent need for change.
When teachers manage smaller groups of students, they can provide individualised support and closely monitor each child's progress. This approach allows educators to identify students who may be struggling in certain subjects, enabling timely intervention and assistance.
In contrast, overcrowded classrooms make it challenging for teachers to offer the necessary support and guidance, affecting overall student well-being.
Globally, the average student-teacher ratio stands at 24.26 students per teacher, based on data from 86 countries.
However, the ideal ratio for fostering a personalised learning environment is between 1:15 and 1:20. This range not only promotes effective classroom management but also enhances the quality of education. While the student-teacher ratio is critical, it is essential to note that factors such as teacher quality and available resources significantly influence educational outcomes.
In Oman, the current student-teacher ratio is 9.67, a slight decline from 10.13 five years ago. Historically, from 1971 to 2018, the average ratio in Oman was 24.84, highlighting the significant strides made in improving educational accessibility in the Sultanate.
Recently, the Seeb Parents Council convened under the leadership of Ahmed bin Ali al Shehhi to address various educational issues, including student overcrowding in schools. This problem has been recognised as one of the foremost challenges affecting educational institutions, leading to diminished student performance globally.
To address overcrowding, the council plans to coordinate with the General Directorate of Education in Muscat Governorate to conduct field visits to schools.
The objective is to evaluate conditions and propose suitable solutions to any ongoing issues. Overcrowded classrooms can overwhelm teachers, strain resources, and create an environment where students struggle to thrive.
Ultimately, achieving an optimal student-teacher ratio is vital for fostering a conducive learning atmosphere, ensuring that all students receive the attention and support they need to succeed academically.
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