A proposed change in class sizes at Harvard University has become a point of contention in ongoing labor negotiations, with union representatives claiming a unilateral shift in working conditions.In a bargaining session this week, Harvard officials said sections of the Studio 10 introductory expository writing courses would increase from 10 to 15 students starting next academic year. According to the Associated Press, the proposal was discussed as part of broader contract negotiations with the Harvard Auto Workers Union.Union representatives said the move would increase teachers’ workload and should be subject to bargaining.
They argued that federal labor law requires employers to maintain current terms on key issues such as workload until the first contract is completed.“There is no justification for going beyond their commitment to negotiate with us on such a radical change in workload,” negotiating committee member J. Gregory Giffin said, according to the Associated Press.Harvard University disputed this characterization. A university spokesman described the proposal as an academic decision and said the institution remains open to discussions with the union about its implications.
Workload dispute and legal issues
The dispute centers on whether increasing class size constitutes a mandatory subject of bargaining. Under U.S. labor law, employers are generally required to negotiate changes that directly affect workload and working conditions.Employment law experts said the distinction may not be clear. Risa said. Lebrowitz, a professor at Cornell University, told the Associated Press that increasing class size leads to an increased workload.
She added that even if the decision is within the employer’s discretion, its impact may still require negotiation.
Course structure and educational 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 for regular individual feedback.Union representatives said the increased enrollment would change how the course operates.
Geffen said the change will affect the structure of the program and the level of individual attention students receive, according to the AP.
Staffing pressures and program adjustments
The proposal comes as Harvard reduces 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 to reduce course offerings.Union officials said any staff reductions would likely be managed through adjustments such as increasing class sizes.
They argued that the burden of these changes would fall on specific software like Studio 10.
Negotiations and next steps
The dispute is unfolding as contract negotiations between Harvard and the union enter their eighteenth month. The union is also holding a strike authorization vote.In the last negotiation session, the union presented proposals related to layoffs, job security, and conditions of appointment. It also raised concerns about the protection of non-citizen workers.According to the Associated Press, Harvard rejected proposals to formalize some policies on cooperation with federal immigration authorities and refused to include provisions on potential green card sponsorship.Labor experts said that even if the union filed a complaint, the likely outcome would be a return to negotiations. Robert Bruno of the University of Illinois told the Associated Press that the absence of bargaining may complicate the process rather than resolve the conflict.Union representatives said the class size proposal reflects broader concerns about how negotiations will proceed. They pointed out that there is a gap between the discussions at the negotiating table and the administrative decisions taken outside it.
