I think TBL could be used in any size class. Obviously the dynamics are different if you have a class of 6, but it doesn't mean the same benefits from working with others aren't possible. The smallest I've had is three teams (15 students). 24 is a great size for four teams of 6. With only three or four teams, I think there are more opportunities for cross group interaction and inter-group evaluation. That is, teams can evaluate the work of all of the other teams as critical analysis of 2 or 3 other groups is not cumbersome.

Just a few thoughts.

****************************

Molly Espey
Department of Applied Economics and Statistics
263 Barre Hall
Clemson University
Clemson, SC 29634

----- Original Message -----

From: [log in to unmask] href="mailto:[log in to unmask]">Kent Fisher

To: [log in to unmask] href="mailto:[log in to unmask]">[log in to unmask]

Sent: Thursday, September 18, 2008 9:52 AM

Subject: Small classes

The astronomy class I'm planning to use TBL in has a maximum enrollment of 24 students (I can stretch it by a few). I'm wondering if anyone on the list uses TBL in classes this size (or smaller), and, if so, what adaptations have been tried. Are there special pitfalls to be avoided in a class like this? Later on, I may use TBL in my physics classes, which have enrollments from about 10-20 students. Is there a limit below which TBL should not even be attempted?

Kent Fisher

Assistant Professor
Columbus State Community College
Biological & Physical Sciences Department
482 Nestor Hall
(614) 287-2515