Types of Seminar Classroom Arrangements

Depending on the subject being taught, average class-size and equipment within a classroom may be designed and arranged many different ways. Seminar rooms are a versatile type of classroom designed for hosting seminars, small to medium classes involving open discussion and collaborative learning. These rooms have no subject-specific equipment, such as the microscopes or kilns that may be found in labs or studios. In many universities and colleges, seminar rooms are interdisciplinary facilities that may be used for regular lessons and special events.

Single or Donut

The primary arrangement used for seminar rooms involves outfitting a large, central table with chairs. The effect is a conference-style setting in which students and teacher share a common tabletop. Typically the instructor sits at the head of this table with the blackboard at her back. A derivative of this arrangement is the donut or ring in which desks are placed in a complete circle. These setups are advantageous because they enable all participants to be seen equally; however, they may take up a lot of space, feel cramped and violate safety regulations by blocking routes of egress.

Figure-8

The figure-8 is a modified version of the ring, in which desks are arranged in a pinched loop. This arrangement enables the interaction of two independent groups, while still allowing students to participate in large-group discussion. The primary advantage of the figure-8 setup is that it saves space. Unfortunately, visibility across the room is not high.

Horseshoe Arrangement

The horseshoe, or U-shaped, setup shares the same benefits as the ring arrangement, with the added benefit of creating space for visual aides and lectures. In this setup, desks are placed in a semicircle with the blackboard at the opening. The instructor may take a seat anywhere in the ring or set up a chair at the mouth of the U.

Modular Arrangement

For larger classrooms with a larger roster, a modular arrangement can provide the opportunity for students to participate in small-group collaboration. A grouping of four to six desks may be used in lieu of tables; however, this setup may result in gaps between desks. When using this setup, consciously create space throughout the room. Place tables throughout the room leaving at least 4 feet between each group. This will keep sounds and movement from interfering with group discussions.