Whether or not seats are assigned, the layout of the desks or tables is a major component to classroom management. Different configurations provide different ways for students to participate in and the teacher to provide instruction. The following are a few of the more common seating arrangements.
Traditional Rows and Columns
Once the arrangement of choice, the traditional row and column style of seat layout has fallen out of favor with many educators. However, it still has its benefits for teacher centered instruction. In situations where lectures, board work or projection are being used, the row and column arrangement puts students facing the instructional area. It is also a convenient configuration when students need to work independently.
Rows and Columns with an Aisle
Separate the rows and columns with an aisle and turn the seats so that the two sides are facing each other and the room is transformed for another learning environment. This arrangement puts students so that they face each other, promoting student interaction through discussions and demonstrations. The aisle is also a convenient layout for teachers who prefer to pace during, or act out parts of, the lesson.
Circle
A circle of desks puts every student in the front row. The teacher can then either be in the middle for teacher centered lessons or at one of the desks for activities in which the teacher is a collaborator or facilitator. This arrangement can work for any size class, but might have to be changed to include an inner and outer circle if the room is not large enough for the number of students.
Horseshoe
The horseshoe shape has the same benefits as using a circle, whether arranged one or more desks deep. Additionally, it provides room for the teacher to move easily among students and allows the teacher to redirect students’ attention to a board or projection without the need to move seats.
Groupings
Putting desks in small groups so that students face each other is ideal for group activities. When the desks are placed tightly together they provide a larger working surface and promote collaboration among the students in the group. The teacher can move easily among the groups and, if arranged so that no student’s back is to the board, can still redirect attention to provide instruction or directions.
Through trial and experience each teacher will find one or more arrangements that work best for his or her classroom. In some cases it makes sense to change the layout depending on how instruction is being delivered or what in needed for the class activity, but there is not one arrangement that works well for all teachers.
Reference for ideas and printable maps: TeAch-nology
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