The 4-1-1 on Flexible Seating
A classroom with flexible seating looks different from a traditional classroom that uses only desks and chairs. Items such as pillows, stools, bouncy balls, standing tables, etc. are used to allow students to have options for where they can best work and learn. The goal of flexible seating is to give students choice and to help them find the type of seating that allows them to achieve their best learning. Their best learning spot may change throughout the day based on their need or the work that they're being asked to do, so students will have the option of changing work spots when necessary.
A classroom with flexible seating looks different from a traditional classroom that uses only desks and chairs. Items such as pillows, stools, bouncy balls, standing tables, etc. are used to allow students to have options for where they can best work and learn. The goal of flexible seating is to give students choice and to help them find the type of seating that allows them to achieve their best learning. Their best learning spot may change throughout the day based on their need or the work that they're being asked to do, so students will have the option of changing work spots when necessary.
How will flexible seating be introduced?
At the beginning of the school year, I will invite students to join me to create a list of guidelines/ rules for using the different seating options. I will spend time teaching them what it should look like when they're using the seats and how to best take care of them. I will then allow students the opportunity to try out the different options in our classroom and determine where they work best. They will be able to evaluate the choices available in order to choose the best spot for them to complete the task they are being asked to complete.
There are many different options for seating, but you will see that all options still allow for a workspace for students. Almost all of the seating choices are still placed at tables and individual desks are still available for any student that shows me that they need a bit more structure.
I have seen so many benefits of flexible seating through the research I have done in the last two years. It empowers our students, increases student engagement and can help prepare students for the real work. Students love the opportunity to have a choice and I hope you will too!
At the beginning of the school year, I will invite students to join me to create a list of guidelines/ rules for using the different seating options. I will spend time teaching them what it should look like when they're using the seats and how to best take care of them. I will then allow students the opportunity to try out the different options in our classroom and determine where they work best. They will be able to evaluate the choices available in order to choose the best spot for them to complete the task they are being asked to complete.
There are many different options for seating, but you will see that all options still allow for a workspace for students. Almost all of the seating choices are still placed at tables and individual desks are still available for any student that shows me that they need a bit more structure.
I have seen so many benefits of flexible seating through the research I have done in the last two years. It empowers our students, increases student engagement and can help prepare students for the real work. Students love the opportunity to have a choice and I hope you will too!