UNEARTHING THE EFFECTS OF CLASSROOM OVERCROWDING ON THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

V.H. Mzimela; T.P. Mngomezulu; L.O. Makhonza; N. Buthelezi; O.A. Ajani

doi:10.31435/ijite.3(51).2025.3083

V.H. Mzimela Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
T.P. Mngomezulu Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
L.O. Makhonza Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
N. Buthelezi Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
O.A. Ajani Faculty of Education, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31435/ijite.3(51).2025.3083

Keywords: Class Size, Government Schools, Learner-Educator Ratio, Overcrowding, Quality Education

Abstract

The study aims to unearth the effects of classroom overcrowding on the quality of education in government schools. It discusses how overcrowding limits educators from effectively doing their work and elaborates how learners’ academic performance is affected due to classroom overcrowding. This descriptive research study describes the effects of classroom overcrowding through real life experiences of educators. Qualitative research method in form of semi-structured interviews was used to collect data from educators, which were selected using purposive sampling. Data collected from interviews was then analysed using thematic analysis method. Findings indicate that classroom overcrowding results to limited access to suitable learning materials, sub-standard assessment, excessive workload for educators, discipline issues, less teacher-learner interactions and effects on learners’ academic performance. It was therefore recommended that educators compile study guides for learners to address the shortage of textbooks, formulate inclusive teaching and assessment strategies for diverse learners and government should hire assistants to help educators with other tasks.

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