How to Design a Computer Classroom

Don't waste computers by putting them in an ineffective space.

Classroom design is an integral part of classroom management. Ensure you maximize learning potential by removing distractions, such as unrelated books, from the learning environment. Consider the placement of everything from informational posters to blackboards; every piece plays an important part in creating a warm, welcoming classroom. This is especially true for computer labs, which by their nature have built-in distractions for students. Increase the efficacy of technological lessons by planning for the inevitable.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Pen
• Graph Paper
• Ruler
• Measuring tape
• Design software (optional)

Instructions

Designing Your Computer Lab

1. Measure your room. Write down the length, width, and height of walls, doors, and other fixed items. Make sure to include the placement of outlets and networking ports.

2. Use your measurements to create a scale-drawing of the classroom on graph paper. You can use design software for this step if you prefer.

3. Consider your available furniture. (How large are the computers? What shape are your desks? What type of projection system do you have?) Let the shape of the largest pieces of furniture determine the placement of items in the room.

4. Consider one of three configurations. There are three main configurations for any classroom; rows, a U-shape, and groups. Having multiple rows of desks allows students to have a fixed amount of workspace and privacy. With all of the desks facing the board, you maximize the visibility of all. Unfortunately, from this vantage point it is difficult to monitor the activity of students. A U-shaped set-up places all of the desks in an arc around the central display. This is an excellent design for smaller labs, where classroom discussion is important. This puts everyone at the front of the room and minimizes the ability to "hide" behind the desk. Finally, grouped tables maximize the amount of privacy. For testing centers and public work rooms, where everyone is focused on her own project, this is a good arrangement.

5. Using your scale-drawing, sketch the furniture in various arrangements. Use the drawing to figure out the necessary lengths of wire and cord. (Will all the computers have power and internet access? Can you use wireless routers to minimize cords? Where can equipment be mounted?) Share your sketches with your supervisors and the maintenance staff; they may know more about the structure and requirements of the space than you do.

6. 

   Ensure equipment isn't placed in areas where it will get damaged.

   Purchase wires of the appropriate length and place equipment as planned. Make adjustments where necessary.

7. Be certain there is adequate light and space at every work station. Sit at the desk and spend some time typing. (Do your elbows bump your neighbor's? Does the mouse roll smoothly? Do the wires get in the way?)

8. 

   Provide headsets if your users need to working with audio.

   Use posters and displays to encourage proper use of computers. (Ex. How to Run an Internet Search, How to Open a Program, How to Print, etc.) Post rules for safe computer use. (Ex. No food near computers, no drinks in the room, no loud talking, use headphones, etc.)

References

• Scholastic: Class Set-Up Tool
• Scholastic: Seating Chart
• SmartDesks: Instructional Design