My instititution is in the process of renovating our ancient computer labs.
One of them is used primarily for teaching stat and is laid out in
traditional classroom format. As things stand currently, this is one of the
worst teaching spaces I've ever worked in. It is near impossible for the
instructor to see students' faces when standing in front of the class. All
I can see (and I'm 6'6") is the backs of monitors for people in the last two
rows of class. Ideally, the computers would be laid out in columns that are
the opposite of the way that things are currently, with students facing the
east and west walls.
e.g.:
FRONT (north)
X X X X
X X X X
X X X X
X X X X
X X X X
X X X X
(space)
The current layout makes it impossible for the instructor to get to and help
anyone who's not sitting on the aisle. It's also difficult for students on
the wall side of the rows to get in and out to fetch printouts and the like.
The alternative layout of two columns of PCs on either side of the room,
with an island of PCs in the center with at least eight feet between the
edge of the island tables and the edge of the outside tables, and an
easement between the island and the back of the room would make it possible
for the instructor to circulate and check on students' work.
Our VP for finance seems quite pleased with the old layout and is inclined
to repeat it in the new facility unless I can come up with some research or
other sources touting alternative layouts. Has anyone been through this
process and does anyone know of places I might look for research on ideal
lab layout for teaching statistics?
Thanks,
Brad
Brad Smith
Western Maryland College
Westminster, MD 21157
410-857-2532 - work
410-871-9464 - home
877-668-9942 - voicemail and fax
http://learn.at/wmc
