How to Design a Classroom Layout
Teachers must design classrooms that are conducive to their teaching styles. Designing an effective classroom allows students the maximum opportunity to learn. In designing a classroom, a teacher must consider the most important factor, the students. A successfully designed classroom will make the teacher more efficient.
Instructions
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Consider the students. Remember that students learn in many different ways, and where they are seated can affect learning. Consider special-needs students and where they may need to be placed within the room. Make sure all students can see the board and hear from where their desks are positioned. There are several different desk setups to consider: rows, tables, partners, row arcs and circles. Be creative and use the style most effective for the students.
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Plan for function and safety. Avoid congestion or areas that will cause students to gather. Consider the size of the room when starting the design process. Too many items will clutter the room and make it difficult to move around. Make sure students can safely move around the room and reach the door in an emergency.
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Designate an area for group work. This can be an area where students can work in small groups or a teacher can work with a group of students. This spot should be away from the desks and have a separate set of guidelines outlined by the teacher.
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Assign a spot in the classroom for students to keep their materials. Designating this spot enables students to know where their materials will be.
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Maintain a teacher’s area and storage. This spot is usually near the teacher’s desk and functions as a workstation area. Make sure the teacher’s desk is visible from the door. This is an extra step of protection for the teacher.
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Think of the little things. Is the air or heat blowing directly one anyone? Is there a glare from the window? Is the teacher’s view blocked at any point in the room?
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Tips & Warnings
Several online design programs can be helpful in this process (see Resources).
If the design doesn’t work, change it. Play with it until you find a design that works.
