Training Room Layout Styles & Setup

You may have taken a training session during college, workplace or other events.

Did you ever wonder why some trainings are great learning experiences, while others you sit in for just a few minutes and get fidgety?

Your focus isn't always the problem

The problem can be the training room itself, the layout of the room was not conducive for the training in the first place.

The training room layout must be set up for the desired outcome and should take in factors like the number of participants, facilitate activities and the training style.

Below are 5 common training room seating arrangement guides to consider.

Lecture theatre training rooms

This type of arrangement is used when addressing a large number of learners. Generally, the rows of seats are elevated for better stage visibility, similar to a cinema room.

Pros:?Can accommodate a large audience.

Cons:?Doesn’t allow for group activities that require tables.

You can watch this video to see how we've completed a lecture theatre.

Traditional classroom layout

The classroom setup arrangement is excellent for interactive activities between the learners. The seating setup usually has 2 or more learners in a group accompanied by a single shared desk, facing the presenter.?

Pros:?Promotes better interaction for activities between the learners.

Cons:?Cannot accommodate a large number of participants.?

U-shaped/horse shoe layout

The presenter is in sight of the participant at all times and can move in the middle open space to interact with the learner. This type of seating arrangement is used often in meeting rooms.

Pros:?The arrangement?encourages discussion between the learner and the trainer.

Cons:?Depending on the seating position, some trainees must turn their heads at an angle throughout the session.

Cabaret style setup

This setup is ideal for group learning and peer-to-peer interaction and group activities. This seating arrangement allows the trainer to move freely and interact with the learner.

Pros:?Creates a friendly, interactive environment.

Cons:?Some learners will have their backs facing the trainer.

Herring Bone setup

Herring Bone Setup is effective for a large number of participants. The availability of desks promotes better participation in activities by the learner. The trainer can walk in between the aisle.

Pros:?The accompaniment of a desk will help the learner attend longer sessions and take notes.

Cons:?The trainer cannot interact with all the students because of limited mobility area.

Key Take Away

Training room setup must be arranged depending on the desired outcome of the event. The training style and learner's requirements should be considered before selecting the best training room layout.

I hope you have found this article helpful. Let us know what you think in comments section.