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MANILA, Philippines – Overcrowded classrooms and bullying are driving absenteeism and lower engagement, while smaller class sizes are linked to better participation and safer learning environments, according to Second Congressional Commission on Education (Edcom 2) findings.
Edcom 2 said it held a focus group discussion on May 28 with Junior High School students of President Corazon C. Aquino High School in Port Area, Manila to assess the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Summer Program.The ARAL Summer Program, initiated by the Department of Education and running from May 6 to June 2, provides small-group tutorials targeted on Reading, Mathematics, and Science for struggling public school learners.In a statement on Sunday, Edcom 2 said the objective was to collect direct feedback from learners to inform future education policies.Students from Grades 8 to 10 raised concerns about persistent bullying and classroom disruption during the regular school year, which they linked to overcrowded classrooms and an overall lack of safety within school premises.In contrast, students said ARAL’s smaller classes of about 10 learners create a safer, more supportive environment than regular classes of up to 60 students, saying they can participate more openly, ask questions without fear of ridicule, and concentrate better on lessons.
