Overview
The lecture discusses the adoption of a new semicircular classroom seating arrangement in Kerala schools, aiming to eliminate the concept of "backbenchers" and improve student engagement and performance.
New Classroom Seating Arrangement
- Kerala schools are introducing a semicircular seating method where all students sit in the front row.
- This arrangement ensures every student is within the teacher's line of sight.
- The semicircle model aims to prevent misbehaviour typically linked to backbench seating.
- The seating approach gained attention after being shown in a Malayalam film released last year.
Implementation and Feedback
- Kerala's Director of General Education stated the method may be implemented widely after evaluating class size and student numbers.
- Former DGP Rishiraj Singh called this model revolutionary and praised it for reducing student labelling and boosting self-esteem.
- The RCC LP School in Wadakkanchery East Mangad has adopted the semicircle seating in all classes (LKG to Class 5), with each class having 20–30 students.
- Other schools in the state have started using this arrangement as well.
Reported Benefits
- Teachers report noticeable improvements in students' academic performance since implementing the new seating.
- Students find it easier to hear teachers and take notes with the new bench arrangement.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Semicircular seating — Classroom arrangement where students' benches form a semicircle, allowing direct teacher visibility for all.
- Backbenchers — Students who traditionally sit at the back of the classroom, sometimes associated with disengagement or misbehaviour.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Await the Kerala General Education Department's decision after their study on feasibility by class size and student strength.