May 2006 — Smart Classroom
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Room With a View
A simple, inexpensive collaboration tool that no group study space should be without is a non-digital whiteboard. Clear, posted policies regarding erasure of content in between uses of the space are advisable so each set of users can feel free to take full advantage of the available space. Whiteboards should be completely cleaned each day. Another basic yet fundamental component of a favorable group study space is windows. Windows reduce feelings of constraint that can result from being in a small room. They also can provide a means of monitoring to help teachers ensure that group activities remain on track.
It’s also key not to overlook the necessity of effective seating arrangements. Seating should be ergonomic but without encouraging napping. Chairs and tables should be moveable (if possible) to allow groups to arrange themselves in different ways for projects as appropriate. Wheelchair access should also be a consideration. When tables are laid out, the focus generally is on achieving maximum occupancy; allowing for the necessary space to maneuver a wheelchair is sometimes overlooked.
A fundamental component of a favorable group study space is windows. Windows reduce feelings of constraint that result from being in a small room.
Additionally, a basic level of technology includes providing readily accessible electrical outlets, as convenient to the users as possible. This should include electrifying the tables, if the tables are relatively fixed. There should be an accessible electrical receptacle for each student. Wireless networking, ubiquitous in many learning environments, should be given special consideration for group learning spaces. Depending on the type of learning activity, the amount of bandwidth necessary for each user, and the number of wireless users in the immediate coverage area, it may be suitable to provide one or more dedicated wireless access points for each group study space. At least one wired network outlet is also advisable.
If additional teacher supervision for peer-learning activities is not easily accommodated, a Web camera mounted in the corner of the room is an option. The camera should preferably be aimed toward the door, to monitor comings and goings, as well as to see whether visitors are causing distractions from the learning activities.
Adding a Layer of Technology
With the basics of wired and wireless network access and sufficient electrical power established, the teaching and learning objectives to be accomplished in the space should drive the technological build-out.
In facilities where laptops are not readily available to students, one or more dedicated Macs/PCs can be provided for group study spaces. A laptop checkout system can also be implemented. However, this can lead to students wanting to use the computers for individual study. Posted policies regarding room use are advisable, placing priority on groups rather than individuals. Where multiple learners are using a single computer, a shared display device can help everyone participate and contribute to the greatest extent. For small rooms, a 30-to-40-inch wall-mounted LCD monitor is often sufficient. The cost of 30-inch LCD monitors has dropped precipitously in recent months, making them affordable for most applications.
