Rational:
This is my ideal classroom layout in Secondary setting.
The student desks are in a horseshoe pattern. I chose desks because it will allow junior high students the individual space that many of them need as well as allowing for ideal room to walk between the desks to monitor the students during independent work. The horseshoe pattern was chosen because it will allow me to be able to supervise as many students as possible. Individual desks will allow the students to move the desks to create smaller groups if necessary.
The table at the top of the horse shoe is to allow me to place materials on and organize. Please note that it is not the teacher's desk. It is not intended for the teacher to sit there and lecture from the front of the room.
The teacher's desk is located on the side of the room. Filing cabinets are placed behind the teacher's desk to ensure confidentiality of the students records.
A bookshelf is next to the teachers desk. Student's will be able to check out books from my collection if they desire.
At the back of the classroom are computer stations where students will be able to use them to run academic programs that will assist in their learning.
In front of the computer stations is a small groups table. There students will work with me or a paraeducator in groups or one-on-one.
Ideally, windows would be in the classroom because *studies show that natural light boosts learning.
*http://architecture.mit.edu/house_n/web/resources/articles/education/Boston%20Globe%20Online%20-%20Nation%20%20World%20-%20Study%20says%20natural%20light%20boosts%20learning.htm
