Not every student can sit and learn at traditional desk and chair for the duration of a school day. Flexible seating allows the students to take charge of their learning environment and make decisions on what works best for them. During independent work time, my students choose a location in the room that truly allows them to be in charge of their learning and meet their potential. Some choose to work under tables with clipboards, others choose to sit on pillows and lean against the wall, some stand and lean over their desk, and a few use the wobbly stools that I do own. I have always believed that making sure that my students are comfortable is a key in motivating them to be successful and take charge in their learning.
My students truly seem more engaged in their learning and less disruptive when they have a choice of flexible seating. Research also states that many flexible seating options stimulate students’ sense of touch. This type of stimulation can help children focus and process information. Sensory input is especially helpful for students with ADHD and ADD. Flexible seating adds to student communication when working in small group and builds a sense of community. Most importantly, it makes learning seem fun to the students and as an educator, I always want my students to love learning. Therefore, in conclusion the results of flexible seating are a more active, engaged, enthusiastic, and relaxed room of students, which are well worth the effort on my part.
About my class
Not every student can sit and learn at traditional desk and chair for the duration of a school day. Flexible seating allows the students to take charge of their learning environment and make decisions on what works best for them. During independent work time, my students choose a location in the room that truly allows them to be in charge of their learning and meet their potential. Some choose to work under tables with clipboards, others choose to sit on pillows and lean against the wall, some stand and lean over their desk, and a few use the wobbly stools that I do own. I have always believed that making sure that my students are comfortable is a key in motivating them to be successful and take charge in their learning.
My students truly seem more engaged in their learning and less disruptive when they have a choice of flexible seating. Research also states that many flexible seating options stimulate students’ sense of touch. This type of stimulation can help children focus and process information. Sensory input is especially helpful for students with ADHD and ADD. Flexible seating adds to student communication when working in small group and builds a sense of community. Most importantly, it makes learning seem fun to the students and as an educator, I always want my students to love learning. Therefore, in conclusion the results of flexible seating are a more active, engaged, enthusiastic, and relaxed room of students, which are well worth the effort on my part.
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