The classroom seating arrangement is as important as education itself. In this article, we will give you some proven tips on finding the perfect desk and seating configuration that aligns with your teaching style, your students, and your classroom space.
When classroom setup is in sync with your teaching style and pattern, students, the space, and most importantly, the furniture, the benefits to everyone can be endless. And, when it’s not, it can be detrimental.
Many factors contribute to determining the most conducive classroom seating arrangement. These factors keep changing now and then. Hence, it’s essential to have a configuration that can be flexible to accommodate classroom dynamics.
First of all, you need to ensure that your preferred seating arrangement works within the space and school furniture you have. Some seating arrangements may not be practical in specific classrooms. It is also essential to be mindful of fixed obstructions like support pillars, poles, walls, and other fixtures.
The number of students in a class cannot be discounted when considering classroom seating arrangements. However, it doesn’t mean that you will have to abandon your preferred seating configuration for larger class size. There is a range of variations of each design idea to accommodate most class sizes. You just have to be creative. Similarly, the age of students can also impact your choice of furniture. Furniture should always be age-appropriate.
This is another critical factor and, unlike the other reasons, it’s utterly dependent on the particular school or college. Classroom seating arrangements can either support and enhance your teaching style and objectives or sabotage them.
Teacher-Centric Class: If your class is a lecture- and presentation-centric one, use a configuration where all students can see you and the lecturer.
Learner-Centric Class: Student discussion and group work are paramount in a student-centric class. Find a seating arrangement where students can interact with one another.
Both: Many institutions believe that a balanced education has a healthy mixture of teacher-centric presentations and student-based discussions. Look for seating layouts that are flexible and functional.
Traditional Classroom
In a traditional classroom, all the desks should face the chalkboard and the teacher’s desk. This classroom layout is practical if your lesson uses projectors, slides, and a chalkboard. The design is suitable for teacher-centered classes.
Large Classroom
In a large classroom, rows of tables with chairs face the front of the room, and each person has a space for writing or using a computer. This set-up is ideal for a Q&A session with the facilitator rather than an interactive discussion between participants. Seating is similar to a school arrangement with participants seated behind a row of desks or tables. Tables are arranged in rows, either butted side-by-side or standing alone.
Small Classroom
In a small classroom, every participant has a good view of the front of the room. This allows the instructor a great deal of control over the students. This setup provides space for note-taking or reference materials. Tables are often arranged in long rows perpendicular to the trainer’s table. Having the desks split into two groups facing each other is an effective seating arrangement for class discussions and debates. The teacher can also walk in between the two groups to see every student and include them in conversations.
Computer-Based Training
These trainings are set up commonly for the use of computers. This can create problems with wires due to the tables being separated. Ideally, power should be supplied near every table.
Once you’ve decided on a seating plan, don’t be afraid to change it! Seating plans work best when revisited from time to time. Hence, it is essential to choose your classroom furniture, which is light, easily movable, and compact. And student behaviors often change too; children will fall out, make friends, develop new and sometimes more complex habits. So changing the seating plan regularly allows you to accommodate these changes.
Moving students around can also help them learn by giving them access to different resources. If they’re sitting at a different side of the classroom, they will be looking at other displays. This provides each child with the chance to benefit from everything your classroom offers. Check out some of the display resources we have here.
So, choose your school furniture wisely. It not only improves the aesthetics of your institute but also fosters learning in young minds.
