An effective classroom setup can dramatically influence learning.
There is definitely more to classroom design than meets the eye. Since the 1960s, researchers have identified links between an effective classroom setup and the behavior of both students and teachers. Because the classroom serves as the physical environment for most of the student's waking hours, planning an effective classroom setup is crucial. The four most important elements are: teacher's view of students, students' view from their seats, decreased obstruction in high-traffic areas and easy access to educational materials. By creating this effective classroom space, the teacher can dramatically influence what happens there.
Instructions
1. Make sure the teacher can see everything. The most important element of an effective classroom setup is to make certain the teacher can see every student at all times. There should be no blind spots or blockage between the teacher's desk and the student's desk, workstations, etc. The teacher should be able to view every student from any location in the classroom.
2. Make sure the students can see everything. Every student must be able to see everything from where they are seated. Students need to be able to see the teacher and the chalkboard. The teacher must make certain students are not squinting, moving around or turning their heads to be able to see the lesson. Seating arrangements include traditional rows, group seating and half circle or circle arrangements. The type of seating arrangement used depends on the age of the students, the teaching style and the types of activities planned.
3. Decrease high-traffic areas. These spaces include group areas, bookshelves, computer workstations, pencil sharpener's and teachers desk. Congestion in these areas can cause disturbances in the classroom. A good way to decreased obstruction is by separating these locations as much as possible, while still being accessible.
4. Make educational material easily accessible. Easy access to work books, textbooks and supplies through a well-designed library and storage area cuts down on disruptions and makes the classroom run smoother. A classroom library must be organized and welcoming to the students. Displays need to invite the students to touch, read and write while knowing how, where and when to do it.
5. Observe classrooms. If you are working within existing classroom, observe the students and staff in that setting. Make notes on what works and what does not work well. Make changes based on your observations. Begin the cycle again once your lesson plans and goals have been achieved.
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