Monday, April 27, 2015
Already there
Ed news:
Standing is better than sitting for learning, attention and behavior.
No duh, as they say.
The article is really an unpaid ad for a newly formed company making 'stand desks', but that's OK. 'Stand desks' are tall desks with a tall backless stool instead of a 90-degree backed chair. You can stand on your feet or perch on the stool; you can't lay back and snooze.
The point is powerfully valid and the product looks well designed and sturdy.
My only quibble is that the idea is presented as new. It's not new at all, even within conventional public schools.
Classes that involve actual learning of actual skills have always used 'stand-desks' without the new trademark. Chem or physics labs, wood shop, home ec, electronics shop. Standing part of the time, perching on tall backless stools, walking around part of the time to fetch components or ingredients or use power tools. Always moving = always interested. Ideal.
Classes that involve memorization of toxic sludge have always used sleep-able 90 degree seats.
The contrast was accidentally good for real learning. You were awake in useful classes and drowsing in useless classes. Optimal combo.
Labels: Experiential education
¶ 4:57 AM
