Without question, inactivity is bad for us. Prolonged sitting is consistently linked to higher risks of cardiovascular disease and death. The obvious response to this frightful fate is to not sit— move. Even a few moments of exercise can have benefits, studies suggest. But in our modern times, sitting is hard to avoid, especially at the office. This has led to a range of strategies to get ourselves up, including the rise of standing desks. If you have to be tethered to a desk, at least you can do it while on your feet, the thinking goes.

However, studies on whether standing desks are beneficial have been sparse and sometimes inconclusive. Further, prolonged standing can have its own risks, and data on work-related sitting has also been mixed. While the final verdict on standing desks is still unclear, two studies out this year offer some of the most nuanced evidence yet about the potential benefits and risks of working on your feet.

Take a seat

For years, studies have pointed to standing desks improving markers for cardiovascular and metabolic health, such as lipid levels, insulin resistance, and arterial flow-mediated dilation (the ability of arteries to widen in response to increased blood flow). But it's unclear how significant those improvements are to averting bad health outcomes, such as heart attacks. One 2018 analysis suggested the benefits might be minor.

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Here is a class study tool that improves students’ confidence and ability to reach their potential.

In the digital age, learners access vast amounts of information, but common classroom challenges prevent learners from getting the most from their studies. Glean’s web and mobile app helps learners manage information effectively using a note taking process that’s based on learning science. Glean works with over 800 colleges and universities worldwide to help support learners of all abilities, ranging from Harvard, Berkeley, and Columbia University.

With Glean, classroom barriers to learning effectively from class content are removed, and students are able to capture information and then structure the process to build knowledge after class. Glean’s CORA process puts the student in control of their learning by giving them the framework to organise, refine and then apply meaningful information into their notes. Glean’s UI has been designed to remove distractions so that the student can engage fully in class.

Enabling the student to break the note taking process down reduces stress and builds transferable lifelong skills that will benefit students throughout their education, career and beyond. 87% of students using Glean’s technology users have noticed a considerable improvement in their grades. 93% of users feel more prepared for exams and presentations and 93% are more engaged throughout lectures. Natalie, a student from Carleton University, said: ”Glean has dramatically improved my grades. Before I got Glean I was a C- student, I’m now an A student. I wouldn’t do my learning any other way now.”

For these reasons and more, Glean is a Cool Tool Awards Winner for “Best Student Study Tools Solution” as part of The EdTech Awards 2024 from EdTech Digest. Learn more. 

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