Why State Sponsored Reduced Class Size Programs Aren't Working: A Qualitative Research Study.

Several dimensions of state-sponsored, reduced-class-size programs are addressed. At present, 20 states are contemplating following the lead of Indiana's PRIME TIME and Tennessee's STAR programs. Yet the effectivenessness of reduced class size in elementary schools continues to be uncertain and controversial. No one knows whether reduced class size has an impact on student success. Discussion in this report addresses the issues of: (1) who wants class size reductions, who doesn't, and why; (2) what research really says about small classes; (3) whether reduction of the size of classes can realize its potential; (4) alternatives to reduction of class size; (5) hidden costs of reductions; (6) likely long-term effects; and (7) the need for further research on the effects of class size reduction programs. (RH)