SHOULD SEATING ARRANGEMENTS BE PRE-DETERMINED?
LEILANI P. SANTOS
Where do students prefer to sit: At the Front, Next to a Friend, or at the Back? Should seating arrangements be pre-determined? At the start of the school year or each grading period, teachers prioritize establishing effective classroom management. This includes setting daily routines, assigning cleaning tasks, and implementing flexible seating arrangements. An experienced teacher can attest to the effectiveness of seating arrangements, noting that they not only help teachers remember students' names but also address special needs, such as accommodating those with visual or auditory challenges. While it may seem beneficial to some, some students do not find predetermined seating arrangements appealing as they desire the freedom to choose their own seats.
Pre-determined seating arrangements offer numerous benefits for both teachers and students. Enhanced classroom management is a significant advantage, as it enables teachers to closely monitor student behavior and better understand their students. This proactive approach reduces distractions and potential disruptions, creating a more focused learning environment. Furthermore, strategic seating placements facilitate grouping based on academic needs and learning styles, optimizing collaboration and peer support. By preventing the formation of cliques, pre-determined seating arrangements promote inclusivity and encourage interaction among diverse groups of students. This fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, ultimately contributing to improved academic performance and social development.
However, the disadvantages of pre-determined seating arrangements can be discussed as follows. Firstly, it may lead to a lack of student autonomy, as students may feel restricted or less motivated without the freedom to choose seating based on their comfort or preference. Secondly, there is the potential for discomfort, as being seated next to someone they do not like may cause anxiety and discomfort for students. Additionally, there is the risk of being unable to accommodate all students' needs, such as those who may require specific seating arrangements for physical or learning-related reasons. Lastly, inflexibility can be a drawback, as students may find it difficult to adjust based on changing classroom dynamics, potentially hindering spontaneous collaboration and peer learning opportunities.
Seating arrangements significantly impact both teachers' teaching experiences and students' learning experiences. They foster positive peer relationships, motivate students to achieve learning objectives, and facilitate classroom activities. Creating a comfortable learning environment is crucial for bringing out the best in students. Therefore, teachers are encouraged to be flexible in their approach to seating arrangements. While the benefits of predetermined seating arrangements are undeniable, allowing students occasional freedom to choose their own seats or set their own seating arrangements can be beneficial. This gesture makes students feel valued and heard, inspiring and motivating them to excel in their studies.
To conclude, seating arrangements are important for both teaching and learning. Pre-determined seating has many benefits, like better classroom management and inclusivity, but it can also limit students' freedom and comfort. By occasionally letting students choose their own seats, teachers can balance structure with personal preference, creating a more engaging and effective learning environment.
-oOoThe author is Senior High School Teacher III at Madapdap Resettlement High School (SHS Department) Dapdap, Mabalacat City, Pampanga