When you think of teaching, what pops into your head? Rows of desks? Students sitting up straight, criss-cross on the carpet? Although many classes may still look like this, flexible seating is becoming a popular movement to increase student engagement and concentration.
Flexible seating is the idea that students get to choose a seating style that works best with their style of learning. As we know, not all students, or even adults, are capable of sitting totally still for a long period of time. They need different outlets to help keep them focused. This is the first year I have used it in my class and, so far, I have found it to be a major success. Unfortunately, all of the materials I have are hand me downs or I have had to purchase them. Because of this, I do not have enough seating options for each student.
Having many different options is one of the most important pieces to flexible seating. One type of seat my students can choose is the yoga ball. This gives students the ability to lightly bounce, balance, or gently roll, which allows them to be fidgety in a controlled manner. The wobble chair has a similar effect, but that one can be used on a chair so students can have the back support they might need, but the ability to comfortably wiggle. Something that I have noticed that is interesting is I have some students who will ALWAYS choose to sit traditionally at a table with a chair. Having the chair bands will at least give them the opportunity to kick their feet if they need that to focus.
At the end of the day, being able to give these students the chance to be successful is all that matters.
About my class
When you think of teaching, what pops into your head? Rows of desks? Students sitting up straight, criss-cross on the carpet? Although many classes may still look like this, flexible seating is becoming a popular movement to increase student engagement and concentration.
Flexible seating is the idea that students get to choose a seating style that works best with their style of learning. As we know, not all students, or even adults, are capable of sitting totally still for a long period of time. They need different outlets to help keep them focused. This is the first year I have used it in my class and, so far, I have found it to be a major success. Unfortunately, all of the materials I have are hand me downs or I have had to purchase them. Because of this, I do not have enough seating options for each student.
Having many different options is one of the most important pieces to flexible seating. One type of seat my students can choose is the yoga ball. This gives students the ability to lightly bounce, balance, or gently roll, which allows them to be fidgety in a controlled manner. The wobble chair has a similar effect, but that one can be used on a chair so students can have the back support they might need, but the ability to comfortably wiggle. Something that I have noticed that is interesting is I have some students who will ALWAYS choose to sit traditionally at a table with a chair. Having the chair bands will at least give them the opportunity to kick their feet if they need that to focus.
At the end of the day, being able to give these students the chance to be successful is all that matters.
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