The traditional classroom has evolved rather quickly. We see many examples of classrooms that convey a mission to personalize the learning process and to create a stimulating environment that’s conducive to collaboration.

With the help of certain materials, tools, or just room rearrangements, teachers create a new world view through their classrooms. Flexible learning spaces, personalized learning paths, or community partnerships are just a few of their successful approaches.

In one common scenario, for instance, student-centered learning has become quite common. This classroom system promotes student engagement and responsibility for their learning outcomes. In most cases, centers are set up that involve practice and review that are focused around one particular lesson objective. The student engagement within this learning process has shown impressive results, confirming the positive change in the classroom.

Some of the changes occurring within the 21st-century classroom are also seen directly through the furniture. Of course, based on the students’ age, not every trend or set-up would apply; however, the flexible seating allows for various activities, thus giving teachers the possibility to change the learning environment and therefore make it less “detached” and more student-friendly.

With this idea in mind, here are five suggestions which can be a great starting point for modifications to your classroom and improving the learning environment for your students:

•       Bean Bag Seats – The bean bag chair is one of the top popular choices for flexible seating arrangements. However, the bright colors and design won’t pose a distraction for students.

•       Stability Balls – Also known as exercise or yoga balls, the stability balls allow the kids to gently bounce while seated, all while encouraging good posture. Teachers can also get stability balls that have inflatable bases so can keep the balls from rolling away.

•       Cushions or Mats – As every student have a unique way of learning (and even sitting) teachers will often find that a simple mat or a cushion can be a popular choice among students within the flexible seating classrooms. These are also ideal for a reading corner.

•       Standing Desks – Although standing desks are known for their popularity in offices, their presence is growing in schools as well. Since the benefits are numerous while their impact on overall performance tends to be unmistakable, standing desks work well for both the classroom and a lab.

•       AlphaBetter Stand-up Desks – This version differs from the option above because of its built-in storage. These desks also come with a swinging footrest bar that allows students to redirect their excess energy and engage in constant motion.

Along with options for seating, you can also incorporate unique writing spaces such as:

·         Whiteboard Tables—The table-top is covered in material for a dry-erase space for notes, collaborative problem solving, and short written responses

·         Personal whiteboards—Again, these are ideal for vocabulary practice, equations, and other exercises where short responses are required.

As you can see the classroom of the 21^st century hinges on some degree of creativity and a lot of insight into your students’ learning styles and personalities, but in this process, you’ll also find out just how rewarding it can be to create the perfect space where your students can grow, learn, and succeed.