Classroom Layout Ideas

Not all classrooms look the same nor should they. When deciding on a classroom layout, many factors need to be considered such as teaching styles, subject matter, collaborative possibilities and age of students.

In the past, many classrooms did have the same look and feel. Desks were often aligned in rows facing the front of the classroom. Talking during class was strongly discouraged, especially to other students.

Today, classrooms are often arranged for collaboration and hands-on learning. Students are encouraged to work with classmates as they explore and learn. Classroom design is more flexible to allow for a variety of group and independent activities.

Here are some ideas to consider when laying out your classroom. More often than not, educators prefer a mix of several designs:

Traditional Rows

Pros

• Students are forced to face the teacher which can lead to better engagement
• Good for lectures and presentations
• Teachers can easily monitor all student activity
• Provides separation for testing

Cons

• Students can only engage with students in rows directly next to them
• Some students may lose focus or become bored during class
• Poor setup for collaboration
• Students in the back of the room may have trouble seeing and hearing the teacher

Clusters or Pods

Pros

• Excellent setup for collaboration
• Eye-to-eye contact among peers
• Teachers can easily engage with multiple students in a small group

Cons

• Too many distractions for test taking
• Easier to rely on classmates to finish work
• Hard to monitor student activity
• Not good for test taking

U-Shaped

Pros

• All students face the teacher
• Students also have eye-to-eye contact with most classmates
• Good for whole-class discussions

Cons

• Requires smaller desks that can be pushed into the U-shape
• Takes up lots of classroom space
• Harder to work in small groups

Mobile Furniture Makes Change Easier

Not every class learns best the same way and even one group of students doesn't have the same learning needs day to day. That's why mobile desks, chairs and tables are an excellent investment for today's schools. Teachers – students can help, too! – can easily position furniture into configurations that are best for the group on that particular day.

Our sales team helps educators with classroom layout every day. Reach out at (877) 839-3330 and we will help you find the ideal setup for your space.