The positive impact of educational technologies in a large class context

Large classes usually bring up images of a large group of students with only one lecturer to ‘look after them’.  The focus is on the challenges and difficulties but the advantages of large classes for both students and lecturers are under-reported.  Yes, there are extra difficulties and challenges, but there are also benefits.  There is the extra buzz that is generated when students are gathered together, either face-to-face or online, and there is more of a sense of occasion.  There can be a feeling of anonymity that can be difficult for some students, but helpful for others.  It is useful for students to be able to compare themselves with others – if they can do so anonymously.  This paper looks at the benefits educational technologies can bring to large class teaching and learning.