Background: Crowded classrooms present significant challenges for both teachers and students, affecting the overall educational experience. This study aims to achieve three primary objectives: first, to examine the impact of overcrowded classrooms on teachers’ performance and students’ learning outcomes; second, to analyze the challenges faced by both teachers and students in these settings; and third, to propose strategies that assist educators in managing the complexities associated with large class sizes.
Materials and Methods: This review utilized online databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CIVILICA, and Google Scholar, to identify relevant studies up to June 2024. Two reviewers assessed the quality of eligible studies and conducted the selection process.
Results: The results highlight the negative impact of overcrowded classrooms on both teachers and students. Large class sizes increase stress for educators, making it difficult for them to provide effective instruction and engage students. Consequently, students encounter barriers to participation and access to resources, which can lead to lower academic achievement. Effective classroom management is crucial in these environments, particularly in overcrowded college classes. The main challenges include difficulties in managing the classroom, limited individualized attention, and fewer opportunities for collaboration. This review proposes evidence-based strategies such as implementing cooperative learning frameworks, enhancing teacher-training programs, and integrating technology to support instruction.
Conclusion: Overcrowded classrooms create significant challenges that hinder teaching effectiveness and student learning. This situation limits educators' ability to provide personalized instruction, leading to disengagement and lower academic achievement. It is essential to implement evidence-based strategies such as cooperative learning frameworks, enhanced teacher training, and technology integration.