Investigating Teaching Practices in Large Classes: A Case Study of Public Primary Schools in Tanzania

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Investigating Teaching Practices in Large Classes: A Case Study of Public Primary Schools in Tanzania
Language: English
Authors: Hidaya Mohammed Issa, Nilo Jayoma Castulo
Source: Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies in Education. 2026 15(1):1-27.
Availability: STAR Scholars Network & OJED. 6 Delgreen Court, Nottinghamm, MD 21236. Web site: https://www.ojed.org/index.php/jise
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 27
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Elementary School Teachers, Teaching Experience, Class Size, Public School Teachers, Teacher Characteristics, Evaluation Methods, Teaching Methods, Rural Schools, Barriers
Geographic Terms: Tanzania
ISSN: 2166-2681
2690-0408
Abstract: This study explores primary school teachers' professional experiences in managing large classes, focusing on their characteristics, teaching and assessment practices, and the challenges they face. A critical case study approach using Atlas.ti 24, with semistructured interviews of 12 teachers (six male and six female) from two primary schools in Tanzania, was employed. Teachers developed their nurturing characteristics over time when teaching large classes. Teachers rely primarily on teacher-centered methods, such as lectures, corporal punishment discipline, and note-taking. Assessment practices include group tasks and summative tests; however, individualized assessments remain a challenge. Teachers face significant challenges, including insufficient resources, poor classroom environments, and limited government support. The small sample size limits the study's generalizability. The study proposed a large-class pedagogical adaptation for rural school settings. [Note: The page range (1-28) shown on the PDF is incorrect. The correct page range is 1-27.]
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1508415
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This study explores primary school teachers' professional experiences in managing large classes, focusing on their characteristics, teaching and assessment practices, and the challenges they face. A critical case study approach using Atlas.ti 24, with semistructured interviews of 12 teachers (six male and six female) from two primary schools in Tanzania, was employed. Teachers developed their nurturing characteristics over time when teaching large classes. Teachers rely primarily on teacher-centered methods, such as lectures, corporal punishment discipline, and note-taking. Assessment practices include group tasks and summative tests; however, individualized assessments remain a challenge. Teachers face significant challenges, including insufficient resources, poor classroom environments, and limited government support. The small sample size limits the study's generalizability. The study proposed a large-class pedagogical adaptation for rural school settings. [Note: The page range (1-28) shown on the PDF is incorrect. The correct page range is 1-27.]
ISSN:2166-2681
2690-0408