Why is the union concerned about the proposed class size increase at Harvard?

The union contends that the proposed increase unilaterally alters working conditions and significantly increases instructors' workload, which they believe must be bargained.

How long have contract negotiations been ongoing at Harvard?

Contract negotiations between Harvard and the union have been ongoing for 18 months.

Home / Education / Harvard Class Size Hike Sparks Union Clash

Harvard Class Size Hike Sparks Union Clash

Q: What is Harvard proposing regarding class sizes?

Harvard proposes increasing the class sizes in its introductory Expository Writing "Studio 10" courses from 10 to 15 students.

18 Apr

•

Summary

Harvard proposes increasing 'Studio 10' class sizes from 10 to 15 students.
Union argues the change unilaterally alters working conditions and workload.
The dispute occurs amid ongoing 18-month contract negotiations between Harvard and the union.

Harvard Class Size Hike Sparks Union Clash

A contentious proposal by Harvard University to increase class sizes in its introductory Expository Writing "Studio 10" courses from 10 to 15 students has intensified ongoing labor negotiations. Union representatives for Harvard Academic Workers-United Auto Workers assert that this change unilaterally shifts working conditions and increases instructor workload, thus requiring negotiation.

Harvard officials, however, characterized the proposal as an academic decision, while expressing openness to discussing its effects with the union. The core of the dispute lies in determining if increasing class size constitutes a mandatory subject for bargaining, a point labor law experts suggest is not always straightforward, often necessitating negotiation even if an employer has discretion.