Kollam: Discussions and studies on removing back benches from classrooms to improve students’ learning levels and ensure greater participation have yet to yield any results. In most classrooms, the existing arrangements leave little room for students to move around freely or study with adequate attention.

Criticism has been raised for years that the traditional seating arrangement is not conducive to children’s learning activities. The previous government had tasked the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) to study the issue and suggest solutions. The committee visited schools and collected information. It also sought the views of headteachers, principals, students, teachers and parents.

The committee identified several problems faced by students. Children with disabilities do not receive adequate consideration under the existing seating arrangements; teachers find it difficult to ensure participation and interaction of other students in learning activities; students are unable to see one another properly; equal opportunities are not ensured; and shorter children face difficulties when students are made to switch benches on a daily basis.

One of the recommendations was to provide seating arrangements that ensure adequate attention for children requiring special consideration. It also suggested seats of different heights to suit children’s physical growth, and, in classes with fewer students.