Desks get cutting-edge upgrade at MBHS
The lowly school desk is getting a makeover at Mountain Brook High School. Just as styles change and concepts come into vogue, the idea of how a student learns and spends class time is getting attention in today’s learning environment.
The wooden desk reigned 100 years ago, and then the metal desk gained popularity. Today, 21st century teaching skills require collaboration, creativity and innovation. Principal Amanda Hood is addressing this issue by taking new research on how students interact and applying it to foster a better education for our children.
In an interview recently with Hood, she showed me the new desk formations that Mountain Brook currently has under consideration in the library.
“Kids like to carve out spaces to work,” she said.
In this way, new, comfortable, accessible spaces that encourage exchange of ideas are being created in the mall, the library and eventually into a classroom transformation. After an initial trial phase, teachers will decide what works for each subject area. One set of desks has rolling chairs and a desk feature that can be placed in rows or easily moved into group formations.
Another learning area, called a media scape, is a device-oriented bar. It measures 38 inches high and 5 feet wide. Attached to one end is a screen that measures 38 inches wide by 23 inches high. A plug-in bank in the middle of the table allows multiple users to tap a round button on the cord to connect with other users at the table with computer, phone or iPad. Ideas develop through talking as research expands on subject-oriented topics.
Learning styles have evolved from textural book-oriented to visual device -oriented with the advent of computer proliferation. These new seating arrangements will encourage students to communicate in groups helping to foster ideas and grow as lifelong learners.