STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS of the Learning Experience in a LARGE CLASS ENVIRONMENT

This study investigated the learning experiences of nursing students in a large class environment. The setting was one school of nursing located in a major academic teaching hospital in the Republic of Ireland. The purpose of the study was to identify students' perceptions of the learning experience in large groups and key factors that affect the teaching and learning experience. Data were gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire that incorporated elements of both qualitative and quantitative approaches to inquiry. Respondents were asked their perceptions of the impact of class size on the learning experience. Their perceptions were analyzed to identify key factors thought to contribute to the learning experience in large classes. Respondents agreed that class size affected levels of participation, but they perceived this as only one of a number of influential factors, including teaching and learning strategies, teacher behaviors, and elements of classroom organization and management.