Classrooms today need some major remodeling. What kind of results can we expect from students when they sit in hard plastic chairs in disciplined rows, unable to interact with each other? Shouldn't the classroom evolve with the rest of modern society? Our offices are changing, and a child's only job is to get an education at this phase in their life. We need to think about making it easier for our future generations to learn in the classroom.

People require change. From primary school to college or university, positive change in all aspects is mandatory for progress. Physical improvements, such as with furniture, is no exception. Classroom arrangement and amenities make a difference in developing students' interest and providing a healthier and more collaborative environment in which to learn and understand.

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Today, many students lag behind in classes and life, getting less hands-on experience and dealing with low confidence levels, arising in some part from ineffective teaching environments and learning strategies. Thus, refurnishing the classroom is one way to improve the learning atmosphere. Here are a few tips to guide you on how to improve, design, and arrange classroom furniture for students in your school:

Placement of Classroom Furniture

The arrangement of classroom furniture matters a lot. A student is more likely to learn and collaborate with fellow students and teachers when his position is such that he is able to look at and talk to everyone.
Try a big circle arrangement so that everyone can be seen and heard equally. This allows for more exchange of nonverbal body language and increases students' comfort level in being vocal, and therefore engaged, with a subject matter.

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Some other arrangements that might be more conducive to collaborative, creative communication in the classroom include:

• A semi-circle arrangement: Sometimes, in classrooms with a large number of students, a circular arrangement can just end up being distracting. Likewise, some students might not enjoy being so visible by all their fellow students if they have something to contribute to the discussion. The semi-circle still offers some student-to-student interaction, while avoiding making anyone participating the total center of attention.
• A "cluster" arrangement: This is a great setup for group work and everyday classroom activities. Groups of three or four students facing each other promotes focus while allowing collaboration between peers. When using this arrangement, make sure that each seat offers a clear view of the front of the classroom.

Natural Light

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One thing that classrooms are seriously lacking is good, quality light. The classroom must have windows for which natural light can get through. Natural light makes the room look more spacious and lively, and is much less harsh on the eyes. Allowing more light from the outdoors to filter in can help reduce eye strain, headache, fatigue, and a host of other problems that drain energy and focus from students.

Moreover, incorporating more natural light into classrooms is a budget-smart strategy that can help schools save precious dollars. Additionally, any heat from the sunlight may be blocked with the help of glass or blinds, especially in warmer months. In colder months, it might help save on heating costs!

Round Tables to Increase Interaction

Much like a circular chair arrangement, round tables can achieve a collaborative atmosphere between smaller groups. It's a good way to combine the circle arrangement and the group cluster arrangement for optimal teamwork and communication. These round or oval tables, again, must be arranged in a manner that the students are able to interact with each other and the instructor easily.

Comfortable Classroom Furniture

Teachers and students spend, on average, 5-6 hours a day in the classroom. Therefore, it is necessary to provide them with comfortable, sturdy, and sustainable classroom furniture. Being comfortably seated can enhance teacher and student performance and concentration and increase positive associations with learning.

Do a quick evaluation of your classroom and classroom furniture. Is it set up for your students to succeed as much as they possibly can? The well-being of students in their places of learning should be a priority for schools, education boards, parents, and especially teachers. Many government education institutions are eligible for special discounting. Let Creative Office Furniture help you navigate updating your space. Give us a call today!

 
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About Jasmin

Jasmin handles Internet sales and digital marketing here at Creative Office Furniture. She's been a valuable member of the Creative team since March 2014.[/author_info] [/author]