Flexible seating is the mainstay of some classrooms. It provides options for students to sit comfortably in the classroom. With flexible seating, students have the choice to sit in a seat that fits their needs.
Various types of seating comprises yoga balls, chairs couches, stools, etc. Thus, students have choices that fit their needs, comfort levels, or mood for the day.
It is important and natural for students to move around. Movement is healthy for the body. It increases oxygen to the brain. It helps the blood flow and provides core strength. Movement keeps students on focus. Physical strength from movement boosts academic performance. Comfort in the classroom keeps students calm and productive.
Empowering Students with Flexible Seating
Variouss types of seating in the classroom empowers students through choice. It also allows for a change of location while students work on an assignment or a project. They can choose where to sit and with whom they work.
Traditional seating cause students to be territorial. They get possessive of their space and supplies. Various types of seats allow students to move and work more with each other. They encourage collaboration. Students pair up, work in small groups, or work whole class.
As students collaborate and communicate with each other they learn problem-solving skills and conflict resolution. Teachers claim that differentiated seating encourages student to come to school.
As present, there is some research on the results of flexible or differentiated seating. However, teachers say students feel a sense of comfort and belonging. The downsides occur with a small classroom space. It is difficult for students to move around. It’s also difficult as some teachers share classroom space.
Flexible classrooms that contain couches, mats, optional and alternative seats are popular today. Many classrooms also contain cozy corners to student to concentrate. However, some classrooms still have the traditional rows of desks that go back over 80 years. Whether it improves learning is yet to be seen. However, the classroom design should first match the teacher’s style of teaching.
Various seating does not always mean students can move around the classroom unless the teacher permits. Teachers can choose their type of movement or non-movement for the day. Given various seating options allows for students to move into groups or work independently.
Various types of seating for students to choose may not fit everyone’s needs. But, some classrooms show it improves student’s attitudes about school. A blog posts by Cassie Tabrizi details how she introduced this seating to her students.
