- : For adults (grade 9 up), allow a minimum of 30" width for each student computer station to fit up to 19" monitor sizes and space for a full-width keyboard and adequate mousing surface, plus minimal privacy and elbow room. We have found, for most single-monitor software-based training, that a 44" wide station is ideal - permitting room for hand-wriiten note taking and texts, adequate privacy, yet not discouraging student-to-student interaction.
- : Though limited by the width of the desks and the room, if you have have the space, 44" between students separates students for privacy yet permitting interaction.
- : Placing student desks in curved, concentric rows will increase privacy and improve interaction.
- : Current ergonomic studies recommend maintaining 30" between the bottom edge of a fixed CRT or LCD screen and the user's eyes. Because classroom workstations often do not offer enough space to accommodate textbooks and note-taking as well, a compromise may be necessary. In addition, multiple users may need to make adjustments. For this purpose, providing an adjustable task chair is also very important.
- : If you are providing a pullout platform for input devices, allow 30" minimum worksurface depth for 14-19" CRT monitors, 36" depth for 21" CRT monitors and 26" depth for LCD displays. In most cases, this will provide enough space to accommodate textbooks and note-taking.
- : The desk top should be deep enough so that the monitor and qany exposed cables do not overhang the back to prevent accidental damage to equipment or cable connections.
- : Allow a minimum of 42" between rows (with keyboard retracted) when using computer task chairs on casters (39" if you are using thin back task chairs) to allow one student to pass behind without requiring seated students to push in their keyboard trays. Minimize the number of students per row, if the space is limited. If possible, increase the distance for longer class periods.
- : Establish 36" minimum width for aisles between rows of desks. 42" is preferable for wheelchair access. If a projector cart may be rolled into the aisle for use, be sure there is enough room for students - with their belobings - to pass beside. Ideally, two students should be able to wals side-by-side or pass in an aisle.
- : Staggering desk rows increase perceived and actual aisle width and access in tight spaces.
- For wheelchair access, maintain 48" minimum width for aisles to doors and 30" turning radius.
- Allow 30" chair space between laptop table rows.
- If possible, allow 60" between conference table edge with keyboard trays retracted and wall.
- Minimum 72" deep x 60" wide space for instructor station (desk or lectern). Include adequate access (check ADA requirement)
- If students must access their seats by passing behind instructor's desk, allow minimum of 96" depth plus 36" to the side.
- Printer carts, cabinets or tables should offer enough width for printer and standard paper tray side-by-side
- Be sure to include accommodations for in-room media and supplies storage requirements
- Locate single printer near the instructor or entrance door to facilitate distribution and access
- Suspend projectors and screens from ceiling or walls to protect from damage and vibration, ensure correct positioning and save floor space.
Doors, Windows, Radiators, Columns
- Hold desks 6" from radiators and air ducts for adequate circulation.
- Desks should run parallel to windows to prevent glare.
- Be sure to account for door swing.
- It is usually easier and less costly to move a door (and always simpler to change a door's swing than to design around it.
- Columns may affect visibility as well as seating. When planning, be sure to note location and size.
Seating
- Adjustable computer chairs with arm rests promote ergonomic seating position resulting in increased classroom productivity and cognitive retention.
- Be sure tablet arms are large enough to support laptops and swing up and out of the way to permit easy access.
- 7-10% of tablet arm chairs for classrooms should be specified as left-handed.
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