Multigrade classrooms: Advantages, difficulties and proposals for improvement expressed by teachers in Galicia-Spain

Abstract

Multigrade classrooms offer many educational benefits and possibilities, and not only in rural settings. However, there are many difficulties encountered by teachers in this type of classrooms; among others, the lack of specialised training or the insufficient support from the administration. The purpose of this research is to find out the perception of teachers in multigrade classrooms in Galicia (Spain) regarding the possibilities of multigrade teaching, the limitations and proposals for improvement necessary for the optimisation of this educational model. The results show that the educational reality where a significant percentage of the school population is attended in multigrade classrooms requires specific measures to help with the challenges of this type of classroom. Consequently, the support of the educational administration and the consideration of multigrade not only as a strategy that avoids the closure of rural schools, but also as a model of innovation are necessary. It is urgent to make a commitment that will lead to a revaluation of this type of classroom.