Your lab setup sounds like our general chem lab. The benches are lower than typical standing counter height so some activities are not ideally done while standing, like writing in their notebooks or making observations at the desktop level. But they also stand when needed for better leverage, depending on what they're working on. From a classroom management perspective I like that they can sit during the pre-lab lecture, and the pod design helps with collaborative work. The hazards of our work are low enough that I haven't been concerned that sitting compromises their safety (maybe I should be?). I'm interested in hearing others' experiences here too.

OK folks - it is time to ask the question as we just got new laboratories for one of our campus locations.  In our chemistry labs at two of our campuses we have "laboratory pods"  A bench with a sink in the middle and places for four individuals with under the pod stools.  (Note in the new laboratory - the stools weren't the best choice and are now a tripping hazard, so that is a separate issue.)

 

But, what we are seeing more and more is that if the stools are available the students want to sit to do the experiments.  Understanding of course that there are some that need this type of accommodation, but for most - sitting while doing the experiment is not necessary or desired.  

 

So, I am asking the question - primarily to defend our stance, what  is your opinion about stools in a general chemistry laboratory - we are talking introductory chemistry and general chemistry.

 

 

Frankie Wood-Black, Ph.D., REM, MBA

Principal - Sophic Pursuits

NOTE - ADDRESS CHANGE - Mailing Address - PO Box 433, Tonkawa, OK 74653

email address fwoodblack90**At_Symbol_Here**gmail.com

or fwblack**At_Symbol_Here**sophicpursuits.com

 

580-761-3703

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