Pillows, bean bag chairs, yoga mats, and a nice inviting carpet don't normally say "classroom." These items say "relaxation," or "cool down". Though we are used to the image of classrooms being equipped with the basic student desks and whiteboards, what education looks like is constantly changing. There have been several studies done that show great success with flexible seating initiatives in the classroom. We must adapt with our students if want to continue to see student-engagement and higher order thinking happening in our classrooms.
These types of learning environments are readily available to my students' suburban counterparts. Constantly, students in low income environments are written off as delinquent or lower achieving and in turn, they are subject to sub-par classroom spaces and resources. School should not feel or look like a prison. Classrooms are also not supposed to be one-size fits all. With this new space, my students will be able to relax and experience something outside of the regular restrictive school desk. They will be able to feel comfortable and in turn, be more productive. My goal is for the learning environment to be something that feels safe, warm, and welcoming for ALL students.
About my class
Pillows, bean bag chairs, yoga mats, and a nice inviting carpet don't normally say "classroom." These items say "relaxation," or "cool down". Though we are used to the image of classrooms being equipped with the basic student desks and whiteboards, what education looks like is constantly changing. There have been several studies done that show great success with flexible seating initiatives in the classroom. We must adapt with our students if want to continue to see student-engagement and higher order thinking happening in our classrooms.
These types of learning environments are readily available to my students' suburban counterparts. Constantly, students in low income environments are written off as delinquent or lower achieving and in turn, they are subject to sub-par classroom spaces and resources. School should not feel or look like a prison. Classrooms are also not supposed to be one-size fits all. With this new space, my students will be able to relax and experience something outside of the regular restrictive school desk. They will be able to feel comfortable and in turn, be more productive. My goal is for the learning environment to be something that feels safe, warm, and welcoming for ALL students.
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