TEACHER STUDENT RATIO ITS IMPACT ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG PRE-SCHOOLERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the impact of teacher-student ratios on academic performance among preschoolers in early childhood education (ECE). The research explores how lower teacher-student ratios influence academic outcomes, benefits, classroom environments, and specific subject areas such as language development and mathematical skills. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from various preschools to analyze the correlation between teacher-student ratios and academic achievements. The study identified five research questions for the studu. The study is delimited  pre-schools in Oredo L.G.A. A descriptive research survey design was adopted for the study. The population of the study consists of the pre-schoolers in Oredo L.G.A of Edo state. A sample size of 70 subjects was used for the study. The Instrument for the collection of data was the questionnaire which was designed by the researcher. The validity of the instrument was done by the supervisor and other experts. The Instrument was administered by the researcher, while the data collected was subjected to simple statistics-frequency and simple percentage.The findings reveal that a lower teacher-student ratio significantly enhances academic performance, as evidenced by increased student engagement, individualized attention, and improved outcomes in key areas such as language development and mathematical skills. Additionally, a favorable teacher-student ratio contributes to a more positive classroom environment, fostering greater academic engagement and overall well-being among preschoolers.Based on these results, the study recommends the implementation of policies to maintain lower teacher-student ratios in preschools, enhanced teacher training programs, better resource allocation, increased parental involvement, and further research to understand the long-term effects of teacher-student ratios on academic performance. These measures are essential for improving the quality of early childhood education and achieving better academic outcomes for preschoolers in Oredo L.G.A and beyond.