A month ago, I wrote about how UK nonprofit FIRA wants to implement standards for more comfortable and ergonomic school furniture. While it doesn’t look like the US will implement comfort-based furniture standards anytime soon, a recent article in the Hamilton (OH) Journal-News shows that one way to learn about what students need is to ask the students themselves. In this case, fifth-graders at a local elementary school got the chance to design their own classroom furniture. Many of the students wanted more comfortable seating and it showed in their work, with one student even drawing up a desk with an integrated pillow.

Of course, it’s just a school project with no real implications for the future. On the other hand, it re-affirms that adding a little extra comfort to the classroom certainly wouldn’t hurt and may even make it easier for students to focus and learn. Staying under budget represents a top priority for educators and if the traditional chairs that your students currently use remain in good shape without causing students discomfort, it makes sense to maintain the status quo. But if you’re looking to make your computer room or activity area into a more inviting place to sit, padded stacking chairs and mobile padded chairs can keep students comfortable, engaged and focused on what they’re doing.

In any case, feedback from students can play a major role in improving your classroom dynamics. Look for the issue of ergonomic comfort to make its way into the dialogue between schools and parents as they all look to do what’s best for students without breaking the bank.

(Photo courtesy of FreePhotosBank)