Does University Class Size Matter? Evidence from Course Micro Data

Abstract

Using the data from macroeconomics test scores and students’ basic information, we estimate class size and average test scores for undergraduate students in Qingdao University of Technology. We find a substantial class size effect. That is, given the two different class sizes--the medium size and the large size, the test score in the medium class size is two scores higher than that of the latter, so to speak, the smaller class size effect is more pronounced. Our finding is consistent with those of others concerning the relationship between class size effect and test scores. Incidentally, science major might enhance score compared to economics major. For policy maker and university administration, this is especially meaningful in terms of the match of classroom resources and students’ course enrollment, as well as teacher assignment or hiring.