Assessing the Impact of Overcrowded Classes on Class Management: A Case of Public Primary Schools in Dodoma Region, Tanzania

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of overcrowded classes on class management of Dodoma city public primary schools, Tanzania. This study followed an interpretivist research philosophy, a qualitative approach and case study design. The study included 32 participants: 24 subject teachers, 4 academic masters, and 4 head teachers from selected
public primary schools. Data collection was done through focus group discussion. The data transcription applied NVivo software. The data were sorted, and analysed through categories and themes creation. The study findings indicate that there is poor class management in overcrowded classes while irresponsible education officers are concerned to the phenomenon. The findings indicate that overcrowding in public primary schools cause chronic stress resulting in illness to both teachers and pupils. It also indicates that education officers fear to restrict overcrowded fearing to lose their positions. All implementers, such as teachers, ward, Dodoma city and region education officers need to be engaged in restricting pupils’ class size for effective class management. There should be a very nice collaborative way among school quality assurance officers and other stakeholders such as policy makers, teachers and practitioners from the ministry of education science and technology.