An Examination of Flexible Seating in the Classroom

The purpose of this study was to examine how using flexible seating options and alternative seating arrangements within a classroom may benefit students. It also sought to identify current teachers’ perceptions of flexible seating as a teaching methodology. Flexible seating is defined as having multiple seating options within one’s classroom, often leading to include elements of student choice. Such seating options may include active seating where the seat allows for movement. Specifically, this study examined the behavior, academic, community, and sensory benefits that students may experience from interacting with a flexible classroom environment. Data were collected from current teachers via an online survey as well as an occupational therapist via an interview. The data supported existing literature indicating that there are behavior and sensory benefits to flexible seating options, however, additional research would need to be done in order to draw concrete connections between academic performance and classroom community with flexible seating options.