Abstract

The topic of class size and its relationship to students' learning outcomes and educational experiences has been extensively examined in the field of education. While prior research has explored associations between class size and academic performance, less is known about how class size shapes professor-student and student-peer interactions and how these interactions relate to students' perceived learning outcomes and overall educational experiences. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study conducted a comprehensive examination of undergraduate students at MSU, Mankato, combining quantitative survey responses with qualitative reflections. Findings suggest that class size is closely tied to patterns of engagement, with smaller classes offering more opportunities for meaningful interaction. These interactions, in turn, contribute to students’ perceptions of learning and educational satisfaction. By illuminating these dynamics, this research contributes to social science literature and offers insight into policies and practices aimed at supporting more inclusive and engaging learning environments.

Advisor

Sarah Epplen

Committee Member

Aaron Hoy

Committee Member

Brooke Burk

Date of Degree

2025

Language

english

Document Type

Thesis

Program of Study

Sociology

Department

Sociology

College

Humanities and Social Sciences

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.

Share

COinS
 

Rights Statement

In Copyright