We've got to arrange a training room that will be used for both computer training and "regular" training sessions. And we do not have any solid thoughts on the best way to approach where to position desks, etc. Typically, our training rooms have tables on wheels--allowing flexibility to change the room set up per attendee numbers, activities, etc. In the "new" room, however, we have the challenge of incorporating 10 permanent computer stations. The room is quite large (rectangular shaped) and we wonder if we ought to position computers in 1/3 of the room, leaving 2/3 for flexibility, or otherwise. Many ideas and many thoughts...but we haven't yet identified the "right" solution. Any experience with this? Any rules-of-thumb? Insight is appreciated--please offer.
Thank you!

For computer classes with <12p and hands on work I've always been a fan of the "horse shoe" as long as the students have swivel chairs. This allows the instructor to view screens without having to travel in and out of rows to provide help. It also keeps PCs, cords, and wires against the wall and out of the way.

However, if the course work requires alot of note taking or writing the traditional "rows face front" is best.

Don't forget to give thought to the entrance. If a student arrives late, do you want them walking in through the presentation area or unobtrusively from the rear.

Depending on the time you have available + H&S regs you can leave the layout as is and get trainees/learners to move the equipment so they don't get too slothful!

I agree with Ron on the horseshoe configuration...however I must protest about the "rows face front" thing for ANY learning, no matter how intense the note-taking may be.

quote:

Originally posted by Laura L:
...however I must protest about the "rows face front" thing for ANY learning, no matter how intense the note-taking may be.

Ten shun!
Who said anything about learning?....rows facing forward is great for injecting knowledge which will never be needed again!