Harvard University’s plan to expand writing class size draws union objection

A proposed change to class sizes at Harvard University has become a point of contention in ongoing labour negotiations, with union representatives alleging a unilateral shift in working conditions.

At a bargaining session this week, Harvard officials said that sections of its introductory Expository Writing “Studio 10” 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 Academic Workers-United Auto Workers.

Union representatives said the move would increase instructors’ workload and should be subject to bargaining. They argued that federal labour law requires employers to maintain existing conditions on key issues such as workload until a first contract is finalised.

“There is no justification for bypassing their obligation to bargain with us over such a drastic change in workload,” bargaining committee member J. Gregory Given said, according to AP.

Harvard disputed the characterisation. A university spokesperson described the proposal as an academic decision and said the institution remains open to discussions with the union on its effects.

Workload dispute and legal questions

The disagreement centres on whether increasing class size constitutes a mandatory subject of bargaining. Under US labour law, employers are generally required to negotiate changes that directly affect workload and working conditions.

Labour law experts said the distinction may not be straightforward. Risa L. Liberwitz, a professor at Cornell University, told AP that increasing class size amounts to increasing workload. She added that even if a decision falls within an employer’s discretion, its impact may still require negotiation.

Course structure and instructional model

The proposed change would affect Expository Writing Studio 10, a course designed for students who require more individualised instruction. The course is typically limited to 10 students to allow for regular one-on-one feedback.

Union representatives said increasing enrolment would alter how the course functions. Given said the change would affect the structure of the programme and the level of individual attention students receive, according to AP.

Staffing pressures and programme 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 in reducing course offerings.

Union officials said any reduction in staffing is likely to be managed through adjustments such as larger class sizes. They argued that the burden of these changes would fall on specific programmes such as Studio 10.

Negotiations and next steps

The dispute is unfolding as contract negotiations between Harvard and the union enter their 18th month. The union is also conducting a strike authorisation vote.

At the latest bargaining session, the union presented proposals related to layoffs, job security and appointment terms. It also raised concerns about protections for non-citizen workers.

According to AP, Harvard has rejected proposals to formalise certain policies related to cooperation with federal immigration authorities and declined to include provisions on potential green card sponsorship.

Labour experts said that even if the union files a complaint, the likely outcome would be a return to negotiations. Robert Bruno of the University of Illinois told AP that the absence of bargaining could complicate the process rather than resolve the dispute.

Union representatives said the class size proposal reflects broader concerns about how negotiations are progressing. They pointed to a gap between discussions at the bargaining table and administrative decisions taken outside it.

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