A seating arrangement in the classroom that is the most traditional in nature and scope, rows of desks remain classic because of their longevity, but do present some drawbacks. Desks are lined up in columns and rows and the teacher usually sits at the front of the classroom. This arrangement is found more often in secondary grades, such as middle school and high school, where less direct instruction is needed. Older students are usually given tests and independent work and do not need to sit in groups. The only drawback is it is hard for the teacher to move between rows, and students who sit in the back are less participatory and may become mischievous with less direct supervision.
Sitting with four or five desks grouped together is a traditional classroom seating arrangement in elementary school. This is an excellent arrangement for collaborative learning and usually students sit in groups with other students of varying academic abilities. Teachers are able to circulate more easily around the classroom assisting students in this type of seating arrangement. The only drawbacks of this arrangement are when giving tests -- there is not much privacy and students are more apt to cheat off each other. Also, there is more socializing between students with this arrangement.
The U-shaped seating arrangement is popular in college and university classes. This arrangement promotes discussion and debate amongst students. Every student in the class can see all of their classmates and the teacher (who usually sits at a desk in the circle) at the same time. This is also a good arrangement for working together on projects as a class.
Two seats together at one table is a popular arrangement in science classes or any class where students work in pairs. It is also used most often in 4th, 5th and 6th grades where students can control their socializing and interaction better than younger students. It promotes collaborative work and still enables the students to see the teacher, who is at the front of the room giving direct instruction.