Chapter 11 page 224
Figure 11.2: Four desk arrangements
Is it better to arrange desks in traditional rows or in other arrangements such as clusters or semi-
circles? Figure 11.2 displays four of the options that teachers have for arranging students’ desks: in
traditional rows, in groups of fours, in pairs, and in two concentric U-shapes. Unfortunately, there is little
research on the effects of different desk arrangements. In one study, when students were asked to complete
assignments independently, their work involvement and efficiency were higher in traditional rows than in
clusters (Bennett & Blundell, 1983). This effect was greater for students who had behavioral or learning
problems. Does this mean that teachers should always use traditional rows? No—because there are also
some disadvantages to seating students in rows. It is difficult to engage students in group work without
losing substantial time as students move their desks. In addition, students sitting in traditional rows cannot
see each other very well during class discussions, which can tend lead to students talking to the teacher
instead of to each other. In class discussions, the students in the back of the class often cannot even hear
what students in the front of the class are saying, because these students are facing the teacher.
2a. Traditional rows 2b. Groups of four2c. Pairs 2d. Concentric U’s.