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We often discuss how important it is to be able to work cohesively in groups, to be problem solvers, and to be flexible as new situations present themselves. To meet the needs of a different type of learning in a changing world, I am changing our classroom to more closely mirror what students need to learn now to be successful in the future. They need to move. They need to talk. They need to work with other students. The standard desks and chairs that oh so closely resemble what I sat in 30+ years ago are not conducive to that type of learning, or to empowering today鈥檚 students to take ownership of their learning. Being able to move around the room, to stand, to sit, to kneel, keeps their bodies engaged so that their minds can be focused on learning, not on the need to "control" their urge to fidget and move. We have begun the transition from a standard desk and chair classroom to one with flexible seating by adding couches and pillows. The difference was visible immediately. Students were more engaged. They were excited about group work, getting comfy while reading, or just having a different place to sit while writing an essay, but our seating is still stationary and doesn't meet the needs of all of my students. I need alternatives that allow them to engage their bodies as well as their minds. I am requesting wobble chairs (stools with a curved base) and a type of yoga ball with small 鈥渇eet鈥 to help stabilize it when not in use. Both of these allow the students to have the movement they so need, but still focus on their learning! My current and future students would be grateful for individuals funding our classroom redesign!
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