Seating Shapes Learning

Summary of Saputra et al (2025)

This qualitative study explored how English teachers in Indonesia perceive and manage classroom seating arrangements. Teachers highlighted that seating choices—whether solo desks, separatable groupings, or circular layouts—directly shaped engagement, motivation, and discipline. Solo desks allowed teachers to quickly assess comprehension, but often left back-row students neglected. Group arrangements encouraged collaboration but risked uneven participation, with stronger students taking over. Circular arrangements, though favored by students, were rarely possible due to space limitations. Teachers also reported challenges such as noise, resistance to change, and cramped rooms. Despite these difficulties, most agreed that a thoughtful seating design enhances student motivation, focus, and peer support. The study underscores seating as more than furniture placement: it is a strategy to build productive, comfortable, and engaging English classrooms.

Reference:
Saputra, M. A., Ibrahim, A., Lubis, A. H., & Khairani, N. (2025). Teachers’ perspectives on seating arrangements for English language learners. Indonesian Journal of Integrated English Language Teaching, 11(1), 19–25. https://doi.org/10.24014/ijielt.v11i1.36596

Suggested Citation:
Ross, E. M., & Malar, D. B. J. (2025). Seating Shapes Learning. Excellent Educator, 2(19), 1.