I have learned a lot from my years teaching. One important lesson I have learned is that my students need choices! Next school year I plan on doing a blended learning approach for my students, so each can learn at their level. In order to create the best learning environment for my students, I need to offer different seating preferences rather than the typical desk and chair. What is a great learning environment for one of my students, may not be great for all. My future students will benefit greatly from this project.
We are a diverse population of approximately 550 students, including students on Free and Reduced-price Lunch (35%), SEI (Sheltered English Immersion) students, and students with special needs.
We even have students who ride a bus for an hour to get to school! My students come to school to learn and also for nurturing and support. I provide that in my classroom.
My Project
In order to create a learning environment that is best for all of my students, I need to offer different seating preferences rather than the norm. There is no “one size fits all” in a classroom. These materials would give students a chance to move and choose where they wanted to create their next big assignment. Research has proven this type of learning environment, flexible seating, creates optimal learner engagement. Students will have a chance to work at their best levels when they are in charge of their surroundings. I have seen unbelievable differences in my students when they are given a choice in their seating. They almost always make good choices about where they sit and get more work completed than when they are just sitting at their desk. I have also seen that when my students have a choice in where they sit, makes them less disruptive of their peers. The products that I have selected will help my students by giving them additional seating options to make more effective learning choices. The wobble stools are adjustable and will allow students to sit at desk/higher tables but will still allow some movement. The yoga balls will allow for movement as well. These will be extremely beneficial for some students that just need to get the wiggles out. Of course, they can always choose the traditional desk and chair if that works best for them.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Patchin and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
