In reality, many classrooms at colleges and universities have been built using more conventional models for lecture and seminar-type courses. In general, spaces designed in a student-centered manner, focusing on learner construction of knowledge and collaboration, can support student learning (Rands and Gansemer-Topf, 2017). fixed chairs, and trapezoidal tables with chairs on casters vs.

In particular, students express a preference for classrooms with mobile vs. Further studies demonstrate that students prefer more flexible seating arrangements (Harvey and Kenyon, 2013). In contrast, roundtable seating arrangements lead to instructors and students engaging in more active learning activities, resulting in improved learning outcomes (Brooks 2012). For example, a classroom with seating affixed and directed toward a podium at the front of the room results in instructors spending more time in lecture and students demonstrating less active engagement. More recent research suggests that the set-up of the classroom space shapes instructor pedagogy, choice of activities, and on-task student behavior. Instructional communication theory suggests that seating arrangements can impact how the instructors communicate with students and how students interact with one another, impacting engagement, motivation, and focus (McCorskey and McVetta, 1978). In-Person Classroom Learning SpacesĪn instructor can maximize student engagement by changing the physical setup of chairs, tables, and presentations in the classroom. Below are specific strategies and examples to enhance student learning in a variety of classroom spaces. In the virtual classroom space, such as real-time platforms like Zoom, instructional choices to employ engagement strategies and provide opportunities for feedback also have a positive impact on student learning outcomes (Francescucci and Rohani 2019). In-person classroom seating arrangements affect student learning, motivation, participation, and teacher-student and student-student relationships (Fernandes, Huang & Rinaldo 2011). The physical configuration of a classroom is more than an organizational or stylistic choice by the instructor.

Metropolis ark 1 seating positions