A proposed change in class size at Harvard University has become a point of contention in ongoing labor negotiations, with union representatives accusing it of a unilateral change in working conditions.In a bargaining session this week, Harvard officials said sections of its introductory expository writing “Studio 10” courses will expand from 10 to 15 students starting next school year. According to the Associated Press, the proposal was discussed as part of broader contract negotiations with the Harvard Academic Workers-United Auto Workers.Union representatives said the move would increase the workload on instructors and should be subject to bargaining. He argued that federal labor law requires employers to maintain the status quo on important issues such as workload until the first contract is finalized.“There is no justification for neglecting our responsibility to bargain with us over such a large change in workload,” said J. Gregory Gavin, a member of the bargaining committee, according to the AP.Harvard disputed the characterization. A university spokesman called the proposal an academic decision and said the institution was ready to discuss its implications with the union.
Workload disputes and legal questions
The dispute centers on whether increasing class size is a mandatory subject of bargaining. Under US labor law, employers are generally required to communicate changes that directly affect workload and working conditions.Labor law experts said the distinction may not be straightforward. Cornell University professor Risa L. Lebrutz told the AP that increasing class sizes equates to increasing workloads. He added that even if a decision falls within the employer’s discretion, its impact may require negotiation.
Course structure and teaching model
The proposed change would affect Expository Writing Studio 10, a course designed for students who need more individualized instruction. The course is usually limited to 10 students to allow regular one-on-one feedback.Union representatives said the increased enrollment would change the way the course operates. The change will affect the structure of the program and the level of individual attention students receive, according to the AP.
Personnel pressures and program adjustments
The proposal comes as Harvard reduces the hiring of non-tenure track faculty amid financial constraints. Expository writing is a required course for first-year students, which limits the university’s flexibility in reducing course offerings.Union officials said any reductions in staff would be managed through adjustments such as larger class sizes. He said the burden of these changes would fall on specific programs such as Studio 10.
Negotiations and next steps
The dispute comes as contract talks between Harvard and the union enter their 18th month. The union is also voting to approve the strike.In the latest bargaining session, the union presented proposals on layoffs, job security and terms of appointment. He also expressed concern about the protection of non-citizen workers.According to the AP, Harvard has rejected proposals to formalize certain policies related to cooperation with federal immigration authorities and has declined to include provisions regarding potential green card sponsorships.Even if the union files a grievance, the likely outcome would be a return to negotiations, labor experts said. Robert Bruno of the University of Illinois told the AP that the absence of bargaining could complicate the process rather than resolve the conflict.Union representatives said the class size proposal reflects broader concerns about how negotiations are proceeding. He pointed to the difference between negotiations at the bargaining table and management decisions made outside of it.
