The challenge of teaching large classes in higher education in South Africa : a battle to be waged outside the classroom

In this chapter, I explore the size and discipline of the largest classes offered at two higher education institutions in South Africa and based on the evidence at four institutions make the case that large classes is a minority phenomenon with less than 28% of courses offered having more than 100 students registered. I suggest that large classes offer unique opportunities for delivering the quality learning experience we wish for our students. However, taking advantage of these opportunities require significant planning, support and expertise. I also discuss current practices that undermine the efforts of individual lecturers to achieve effective learning in their large classes.