Academic proposes 25-student classroom limit

Some schools have up to 50 students in a class, hindering effective teaching and learning.

UKM’s Anuar Ahmad said every classroom should have high-speed internet access, a smart board, and an LCD screen.

PETALING JAYA:

 An academic has proposed that each classroom be limited to a maximum of 25 students to ensure the quality and effectiveness of teaching and learning.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s (UKM) Anuar Ahmad said the recommendation is aimed at supporting educational reform as highlighted by education minister Fadhlina Sidek last Friday.

Anuar also stressed the need for every classroom to have high-speed internet access, a smart board, and an LCD screen.

“With fewer students in a classroom, teachers can give adequate attention to each individual,” said the deputy director of the Malaysian Institute of Inclusive Development and Advancement (MINDA-UKM) in a Facebook post.

“Classrooms should also be equipped with better basic facilities than they currently have, including bright lights, working fans, air-conditioning, and proper tables and chairs.”

In her Teacher’s Day speech last Friday, Fadhlina said the empowerment of the education sector must begin with the smallest unit – the classroom.

She said systemic change and reform should not only focus on educational policies, but also on fundamental aspects such as teacher-student interaction on the ground.

The issue of overcrowded classrooms has been raised before, with some schools reportedly accommodating up to 50 students.

To address the issue, the government approved the construction of 44 new schools – the highest number in the last four years – last year.

It also approved RM100 million for the construction of temporary cabin classrooms to address overcrowding in schools. - FMT