The Effect of Cluster Seating in the Classroom on Visual Function

Marie-Ellen Jones, DipAppSc (Cumb), DOBA
Cathie M Searle, DipAppSc (Cumb), DOBA
Stephen J Hing, FRACS, FRACO

Cluster seating arrangements (where children sit n small groups facing each other) have been suggested to cause increased incidence of strabismus, particularly divergent deviations. A study was undertaken to ascertain whether there is a difference in the incidence of strabismus in children seated in cluster seating arrangements, compared to those seated in a traditional manner.
Seventy-eight school children were tested. Thirty-seven sat in cluster seating arrangements, the remaining forty-one did not. Results of orthoptic assessment did not support the concern that cluster seating caused an increase in the incidence of strabismus.