Home⇛Isabela State University Linker: Journal of Education, Social Sciences and Allied Health⇛vol. 2 no. 2 (2025)

Structural Equation Modelling of Graph-Theoretic Classroom Seating Metrics as Predictors of Student Learning Engagement

Johnella Ashee M. Belingon | Paola Errycka D. Adrid | Aljon Kylle P. Zipagan | Midge Seiman F. Maines

Discipline: Education

 

Abstract:

Classroom seating arrangement influences engagement through visibility, proximity, and interaction. This study applied a hybrid methodology combining graph theory and survey data to perform Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) in determining the best classroom structure that supports learning engagement in Philippine classrooms. traditional, window, and horseshoe layouts were compared in terms of degree and closeness centrality, high-degree frequency, and path length, while learning engagement was measured in terms of agentic, behavioral, cognitive, and emotional domains. Graph-theoretic measurements were simulated in GeoGebra in a 7×9-meter plane following the DepEd standard classroom size with a 1:36 student-teacher ratio. Statistical analysis showed that the Horseshoe layout produced the shortest path to the teacher (M = 3.93), the lowest number of interactions (M=4.50), and the lowest high-degree frequency (f=29) among all layouts. It also explained the strongest positive effect on learning engagement (β = 1.447, p < .001). Model fit indices indicated excellent validity (SRMR = 0.041). Findings demonstrate that engagement depends less on the number of peer links and more on physical proximity and teacher accessibility. The Horseshoe configuration optimizes these conditions by maintaining focus and balanced interaction. The study recommends that teachers adopt horseshoe seating layouts that enhance visibility and reduce off-task interaction to strengthen student engagement within existing classroom constraints, serving as a critical tool for evidence-based pedagogy.



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