Date of Award
Winter 12-16-2021
Document Type
Project (696 or 796 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Special Education
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Jed Locquiao
Keywords
ECSE, intervention, behavior management, flexible seating
Abstract
Flexible and alternative seating in the classroom has been a topic of research and implementation in the classroom in recent years. At this time, much of the research discovered looked at inflatable cushions, therapy balls, or even low tables using pillows as seats. It has been observed in practice by this researcher that many times what is sometimes labeled as flexible seating is just something that is “cute” and not a regular chair with a back and legs or flexible seating as noted in research findings such as a therapy ball. Thus far, it has been difficult to determine the place of a foam cushion within the research, let alone if different thicknesses will affect the behavior of preschool children. The purpose of this project was to address the use of a foam cushion to be utilized in the classroom environment by preschool aged children (3-5 years) of thicknesses of one inch, two inches, and three inches versus the concrete classroom floor which is covered by industrial carpet and a one-half inch alphabet carpet. Using an Impact on Student Learning approach with a single subject design, data was collected regarding on and off task behaviors during whole group learning time both while using the cushions and not using the cushions for both general education and special needs students in the inclusive classroom. It was the hope of this researcher that thicker cushions will lead to higher on-task behavior on the part of preschool children, however findings did not show a difference at this time. The foam cushions were covered in the same manner in fabric and were of the same brand with thickness being the only difference in the foam cushion itself. These cushions were made with the idea of being quiet, comfortable, and non-distracting for students while giving more comfort when expected to sit on the floor.
Recommended Citation
Kopel, Roberta, "Preschool Whole Group Circle Time: Does More Comfortable Seating Give Rise to Preschooler Engagement?" (2021). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 588.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/588