In these times of uncertainty, it is more important than ever to support our students and ensure that they feel comfortable and safe. I have enjoyed getting to know my students and creating a rapport through virtual learning, but I understand that they feel a disconnect and miss in-person interaction and learning. I can empathize, and know that a sense of community and healthy communication can help foster their desire and ability to learn.
To this end, the desk shields will help my students feel safe, once we are back in the building. The exercise ball chairs will provide a comfortable seat and hopefully allow my students to feel at ease while continuing our online education; they can be easily wiped clean between classes. Many studies have shown the benefit of offering alternative seating; it encourages students to be more productive and engaged in their learning. A 2012 study from the University of Minnesota found that "students participated 48 percent more in discussions in a classroom with collaborative group seating versus traditional lecture-style seating and also improved their performance on standardized tests,” according to Smith System.
I hope that these tools - the shields and seats - help to build our in person classroom community and allow students to grow as learners.
About my class
In these times of uncertainty, it is more important than ever to support our students and ensure that they feel comfortable and safe. I have enjoyed getting to know my students and creating a rapport through virtual learning, but I understand that they feel a disconnect and miss in-person interaction and learning. I can empathize, and know that a sense of community and healthy communication can help foster their desire and ability to learn.
To this end, the desk shields will help my students feel safe, once we are back in the building. The exercise ball chairs will provide a comfortable seat and hopefully allow my students to feel at ease while continuing our online education; they can be easily wiped clean between classes. Many studies have shown the benefit of offering alternative seating; it encourages students to be more productive and engaged in their learning. A 2012 study from the University of Minnesota found that "students participated 48 percent more in discussions in a classroom with collaborative group seating versus traditional lecture-style seating and also improved their performance on standardized tests,” according to Smith System.
I hope that these tools - the shields and seats - help to build our in person classroom community and allow students to grow as learners.