Most people envision a classroom as rows of desks. However, recent studies indicate that rows might not always be the most effective arrangement. Kaser suggests that rows may work well for focused learning, but clusters or circles promote sharing and cooperative work. The Scholastic website recommends a U-shaped half-ring of desks to allow the whole class to discuss ideas while enabling the teacher to see each student clearly.
Classrooms with no designated spaces can lead to conflict between students. For example, if a child quietly building with blocks gets run into by a child who's playing a movement game, hurt feelings and possibly physical injuries can result on both sides. Use moveable walls and screens to designate spaces for reading, building toys and indoor climbing structures to prevent intrusions on other students' space.
Learning is much more difficult when the student is uncomfortable in some way. Rooms that are too cold, bright or stuffy distract from the lessons and lower student morale. The Scholastic website suggests allowing children to dress according to their temperature preferences. In addition, try to provide different types of lighting. Anything is better than harsh fluorescent, and some students work better in dimmer light or natural light. Finally, consider children's height and stimulation levels when designing classroom decorations. Anything too "busy"-looking will distract students, and anything placed at adult height will create stress, according to SchoolZone.
Accommodate students with behavioral difficulties by taking their space into careful consideration. Kaser argues that students with special needs or behavioal problems do well when placed close to the teacher's desk. This placement promotes attention from both the teacher and the student, and allows the teacher to easily recognize and enforce good behavior as well. According to SchoolZone, students with Asperger’s syndrome or autism should be seated in an area where their space will be respected, and given access to a quiet area where they can calm down if desired.