A Standing Ovation for Stand-Up Learning
October 21, 2014
“When I first started talking about standing desks two years ago, people were shocked. But when I describe the benefits of using these desks to boost classroom performance and combat kids’ sedentary lifestyles, school administrators say, ‘It makes sense. Let’s do that.’”
Classroom Technology: Too Much or Not Enough?
October 20, 2014
The million-dollar question is how much is too much, or in some cases, when is a greater technology presence needed? The quick answer is, there is no answer. A Google search stirs up no shortage of valid voices representing all sides of the debate. Some educators boast the benefits of total technology immersion; equipping kids with modern-day tools is critical. Others make convincing arguments about the dangers of technology in K
Maker’s Mark – How “Making” Is Influencing STEM Education
October 1, 2014
To understand the global impact of The Maker Movement, look no further than The Home Depot. In August, the world’s largest home improvement retailer launched a pilot program with MakerBot to sell its 3D printers and scanners at 12 stores in California, Illinois and New York.
Teaching Students to Collaborate
September 3, 2014
To truly prepare students for college and careers, teachers must equip their students with 21st Century learning tools.
How Seating Ergonomics Affect Learning
August 6, 2014
Given the highly individualized nature of sitting, how can a single chair design work for an entire classroom?
How Classroom Design Affects Student Learning
July 23, 2014
Student learning, and more specifically, setting the right tone for learning, begins the moment a student enters the school building, not just when he or she crosses the classroom threshold. Case in point, think of how entering a dental office versus a favorite fast food restaurant affects your entire psyche. Do you want to flee or feast?
Buying Student Desks? Skip the Gimmicks. Invest in Future-Proofing.
June 23, 2014
If you’re in the market for buying or replacing K – 12 classroom desks, here are eight “future-proof” features to consider before you commit to a classroom design.
21st Hybrids Take Hold: Defining Learning Commons and Library Commons
March 28, 2014
Architects and designers are scrambling to create new hybrid spaces called learning commons and library commons.
Education Trends Require Flexible Classrooms — and Viewpoints
March 11, 2014
Architects and their clients are using the Common Core Driving Design to inspire new flexible classrooms.
STEM Classroom Furniture, Is There a Formula for Success?
November 18, 2013
Furnishings in the room contribute to student engagement with the subject. How to assure the STEM classroom furniture and classroom layout are compatible?
What Makes Classroom Furniture Eco-Friendly? Let Us Count the Ways.
September 1, 2013
This article walks readers through what constitutes “eco-friendly” in a much broader sense. It also provides examples of how one K-12 classroom furniture manufacturer, Smith System, is minimizing its planetary footprint.
Baltimore Design School
August 31, 2013
Congratulations to the 350 students at Baltimore Design School. We hope you enjoy Smith System Desks and chairs. Check out their space, it’s really cool.