4. Recommendations for Further Research

4.1 Effects of class size in a New Zealand setting

The Review Group questioned the broad applicability of most of the research material available - almost entirely based on experience in countries where base-staffing levels are better than those in New Zealand, and core teaching styles are different.  The Review Group strongly recommends the completion of detailed research, investigating class size effects in local settings, including its impacts on the recruitment and retention of teachers and improvements in the wider educational and social outcomes for students. The tentative findings of Boozer and Maloney, The Effects of Class Size on the Long Run Growth in Reading Abilities and Early Adult Outcomes in the Christchurch Health and Development Study (2000), support the Review Group’s belief that, contrary to widespread research opinion, class size reduction is beneficial in terms of student outcomes, both academic and social.

4.2 Teacher workload in an immersion bi-lingual setting

The Review Group recommends detailed work in this area.

4.3 Comparison of staffing levels between New Zealand and similar settings

Research the comparison of staffing and other provisions between New Zealand and those jurisdictions with whom we compare ourselves. For example, in property matters we look to Ireland, Quebec, the United Kingdom, Finland, South Australia and Victoria (Australia) for comparisons. The table below shows prima facie variation in staffing levels in these countries. Please note: In the absence of specific staffing detail relating to Quebec, South Australia and Victoria, details on Canada and Australia have been drawn from the 2000 OECD report, Education at a Glance.

Pupils Per Teacher by Level of Schooling

4.4 Minimum staffing levels

Investigate minimum staffing complements in primary/secondary/area/composite schools required to deliver an adequate curriculum.

4.5 Requirements of an essential network of public schools

Investigate the requirements of an essential network of public schools capable of delivering an adequate curriculum width.

4.6 The link between improved teacher performance and improved student outcomes

Investigate the link between improved teacher performance and improved student outcomes. This report recommends the provision of a new professional leadership component to create the possibility for further professional development in New Zealand schools.