Today’s classrooms are evolving to keep up with technological advancements and modern teaching methods. Traditional classrooms are no longer suitable for the new generation of students as many do not foster collaboration and creativity.
More and more schools are incorporating electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and computers into their education programs. This means classrooms must now be equipped with specialized educational furniture to accommodate these changes, giving students the opportunity to thrive in an ideal learning environment.
Here are educational furniture ideas that will cater to modern classrooms and benefit today’s youth.
Collaborative Educational Furniture
Traditional classrooms are generally furnished with static desks and chairs all facing the same direction. There might also be a blackboard that is placed at the front of the classroom, right behind the teacher’s desk. Classrooms with this type of layout aren’t ideal for group work – it makes it a complicated and time-consuming endeavor to move desks and chairs around, and teachers are less likely to suggest teamwork to avoid wasting time.
In this day and age, however, collaboration is a vital part of learning. As students get older and apply for jobs, one of the main things that will be expected of them is to be able to work in teams. Working collaboratively in school teaches students how to communicate with peers, brainstorm, and find solutions to problems while working with others.
Collaborative educational furniture ideas:
• Lightweight desks
• Desks and chairs with wheels/casters for easy transport
• Furniture with integrated power outlets
• Round modular tables
Flexible Classroom Furniture
Everyone knows that prolonged periods of sitting isn’t a healthy way to spend your day. There is research to back up this claim, concluding that prolonged sitting can cause a whole slew of health problems, including back and neck pain, diabetes, heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and obesity.
We’ve started implementing adjustable desks and more comfortable seating in offices, so why not discuss implementing them in schools, too? Studies show that movement stimulates the brain, and by offering students flexible classroom furniture, we’re giving them the option to have a healthier lifestyle and a better learning experience.
Flexible classroom furniture ideas:
• Standing/adjustable desks
• Exercise balls in lieu of stiff chairs
• Ergonomic seating
Tech-Inspired Educational Furniture
School curriculums are changing to embrace technology. Math exercises can now be completed on a tablet or computer, science can be taught via interactive software, and homework can be submitted electronically. If classrooms aren’t built with technology in mind, students won’t be well enough prepared for the future.
Today’s workforce revolves around the use of technology, and schools need to be able to offer their students a way to learn tech skills early on. With versatile and tech-inspired classroom furniture, instructors can explore new teaching avenues and engage their students in a way they’re comfortable and familiar with.
Tech-inspired educational furniture ideas:
• Multimedia tables
• Workstations with power outlets
• Computers/tablets
• Smartscreens
Improving Student Engagement
When students spend most of their day sitting on uncomfortable chairs in a static classroom, chances are they won’t be as engaged as they could be. Studies show that modern classrooms that have adopted flexible furniture have a positive impact on overall student engagement, creativity, and motivation.
Students need to be in classrooms that inspire them. They also need proper equipment to be able to express and share their ideas and be comfortable enough to stay attentive throughout the day.
Engaging classroom furniture ideas:
• Ergonomic seating
• Mobile chairs and desks
• Portable whiteboards
• Storage units/cabinets
If you’re looking for an office design software that can help you design innovative educational spaces, check out our 2020 Office applications for more information.
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