Arranging classroom space
Viewed broadly, it may be tempting to think that classrooms are arranged in similar ways, but there are actually
important alternative arrangements to consider. Variations happen because of grade level, the subjects taught, the
teacher’s philosophy of education, and of course the size of the room and the furniture available. Whatever the
arrangement that you choose, it should help students to focus on learning tasks as much as possible and minimize
the chances of distractions. Beyond these basic principles, however, the “best” arrangement depends on what your
students need and on the kind of teaching that you prefer and feel able to provide (Boyner, 2003; Nations & Boyett,
2002). Here are some ideas to help choose among your options. In considering them (and before moving too much
furniture around your room!), you might want to try experimenting with spatial arrangements “virtually” by using
one of the computer programs available on the Internet (see, ).