Managing off-task behavior is one of the most challenging aspects of teaching. Trying to identify the root of off-task behavior can feel like searching in the dark with no real end.
Teachers and administrators dealing with off-task behavior may feel frustrated or confused. They aren’t sure how to identify the problem, much less fix it. They may wonder, is the material not engaging enough? Is a different approach needed? Are outside issues, such as problems at home, an illness, or a learning disability, causing certain students to be off task? Very rarely in these situations is the learning environment itself critically assessed and taken into consideration.
It turns out that school furniture matters a great deal for student performance. By choosing furniture that facilitates active learning and eliminates distraction, educators can reduce the prevalence of problematic behavior and help their students succeed.
Why the Right School Furniture Is Imperative for Student Success
Many of us who grew up with classrooms that had traditional seating and fixed desks would never stop to think that something like furniture could be the cause of problematic behavior. But the truth is that school furniture plays a major role in influencing student behaviors as well as their overall success.
When students are required to sit in hard, uncomfortable chairs or stay at their desks for an extended period of time, they begin to lose focus. If they cannot concentrate on the material, they may fall behind. The student who is off task is almost always the same student who doesn’t understand the lesson being taught.
By equipping classrooms with furniture that is comfortable and allows for collaboration, flexibility, and movement, educators can reduce the frequency at which problematic behaviors occur and help their students succeed.
How to Design a Classroom for Active Learning
In order to reduce problematic behavior, it’s important to deliberately design your classroom for active learning. Here are some steps you can take to improve your classroom design:
Include flexible seating options. Flexible seating options such as bean bag chairs or couches provide students with the ability to choose an area where they feel that they work best and are most comfortable.
Provide opportunities for collaboration. Chairs and desks on caster wheels allow students to move around and reposition easily so they can converse and interact with one another.
Enable movement and fidgeting with the right furniture. Furniture that allows students to burn off energy by moving and fidgeting can lead to better focus. When students focus better, they learn more effectively and are less likely to engage in off-task behavior.
By taking these simple steps and choosing the right school furniture, you can easily facilitate active learning in your classroom!
Get Help with Designing Your Learning Space
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