Advantages and Disadvantages of Flexible Seating

Abstract

Recently in education, a new trend called flexible seating has emerged. Classrooms with flexible seating are redesigned to have a “Starbucks” atmosphere where students choose from a variety of alternative seating options and workspaces rather than sit at traditional desks. This study looks at the advantages and disadvantages of having flexible seating in an elementary classroom and determines what implications there are for teachers considering this type of arrangement. It also provides insight into how those involved in the classroom are experiencing flexible seating. Using teacher interviews, classroom observations, and student surveys, this mixed methods case study describes two 5^th grade teachers and their classrooms’ flexible seating experiences. Based on the results of the study, the researcher advises teachers to let the nature of the task determine the classroom seating arrangement. In addition, she suggests providing alternative seating devices for students regardless of the arrangement chosen as they allow for more movement throughout the day. And lastly, the researcher encourages teachers to consider their own teaching style and preferences when choosing an arrangement because they will be most effective when the classroom is arranged in a way that is pleasing and comfortable to them as well.