As a department head, would you hire a new professor or upgrade computer labs with limited budget?

**Question:**
You are a department head at a university with a limited budget. You must choose between two priorities: hiring an additional professor to reduce class sizes OR upgrading the computer labs with new equipment. Which would you choose and why? Explain your decision based on what would most benefit students.

**Model Answer (199 words):**

I would choose to hire an additional professor to reduce class sizes, because smaller classes have a more direct and proven impact on student learning outcomes than updated equipment.

Research consistently shows that smaller class sizes lead to better academic performance, especially in the first two years of university. When classes are smaller, professors can give individualized feedback, answer questions thoroughly, and notice when students are struggling. Students participate more, feel more engaged, and are less likely to drop out. These benefits are well-documented and long-lasting.

In contrast, upgraded computer labs are useful but less transformative. Most students already own laptops or tablets. Many courses require only basic software that runs on existing equipment. While new computers are nice to have, they do not directly improve teaching quality or student engagement. Students might appreciate faster machines, but this appreciation does not translate into better grades or higher retention rates.

I have seen this play out personally. In my first year of university, one of my classes had 120 students. The professor did not know anyone’s name. I never asked a question because there was no opportunity. I barely passed. The next semester, I took a class with only 20 students. The professor knew everyone, encouraged discussion, and provided detailed feedback. I learned more in that small class than in three large lectures combined.

Of course, computer labs should be maintained and eventually upgraded. But when forced to choose, investing in smaller classes benefits students far more. Better teaching is always more valuable than better equipment.