THE EFFECTS OF STUDENTS POPULATION EXPLOSION ON TEACHING IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS: A CASE STUDY OF ADEYEMI COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ONDO.

ABSTRACT This study investigates the impact of student population growth on teaching practices at Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo. The study was carried out to examine the effects of large class sizes on teaching methods, teacher performance, and classroom activities during teaching. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. Data was collected through questionnaires from five departments within the College and analysis was conducted using T-test Descriptive Statistics, focusing on mean, standard deviation, and T-test. The findings reveal that large class sizes significantly affect teaching methods, teacher effectiveness, and classroom activities during teaching. Teachers tend to rely more on theoretical lectures and struggle to engage students in hands-on practical activities. Additionally, they face challenges in monitoring individual student progress. The study also found that when there are many students in a room, it can be intimidating for individuals to participate fully in the learning experience. Therefore, the study offers a number of recommendations which include limiting student admissions based on available space to prevent compromising education quality, adhering to UNESCO’s recommended teacher-student ratio of 1:25, renovating old school structures, and constructing new facilities so as to foster a conducive teaching environment. Furthermore, teachers are encouraged to employ strategies such as group activities to promote active learning and enhance communication skills among students.