Classroom and education furniture typically fall into primary two categories - tables and chairs. Whether it's specific computer equipment or basic chairs for a classroom, it should all be optimized for the educational environment. For a breakdown of what you should be looking for when purchasing classroom or institutional furniture, keep reading.

Student Desks

A sturdy classroom desk is the most basic type of education furniture. Though desks were historically designed to also hold the student's books, papers and school supplies, contemporary schools are beginning to implement mobile study environments. So, instead of learners remaining at one desk and in a classroom, they move from room to room and bring their supplies with them. That mobility removes the need for desks with drawers or storage compartments.

Creativity Tables

Craft tables are a great addition to any classroom, whether for the elementary or secondary school environment. With younger children, they can be used also for creative projects and artwork. With older students, they're perfect for group project meetings, alternative work spaces and, of course, creative or art-based work.

Naturally, older and larger students are going to need larger tables while younger, primary students will require smaller tables that are comfortable and at the appropriate height level. Also, if you plan to use the creativity table for potentially messy activities, look for one that can be easily washed and disinfected.

Science Desks

Typically science tables are higher and offer a clean work surface that can be easily swept and disinfected. They should also come with non-skid, adjustable legs to ensure a level work surface that won't move or skid during an important experiment. Depending on your school, science lab or education furniture needs, you may want a table that includes drawers or space for books and lab supplies.

Task Chairs

Ideally, you want to choose a student or child's computer chair that's adjustable. Because children, even within the same age group, can vary wildly in terms of their height and size, it's important to choose a task chair that can adjust so they may sit up straight, touch the floor with their feet and comfortably reach the keyboard.

Computer Workstations

As schools race into the technology age, computers are fast becoming a must-have for libraries, classrooms, computer labs and common areas. However, along with research computers, educational institutions also need computer desks or workstations. When buying a computer desk, look for one that can be adjusted, is comfortable and offers security and storage to both tuck away wires and also lock in valuable components.

Besides standard computer desks, schools might want to include laptop workstations as part of their education furniture purchases. Because so many students are starting to bring personal laptops to school to take notes and complete their homework, having laptop-ready desks in the classrooms and the libraries can be a great solution.