In this blog, we’ll explore different ways that Mosaic classroom Geology (GY) 4069 can be arranged to support a variety of active learning activities.
With seating for up to 24 students (at 12 Verb tables that each seat 2 students) Geology 4069’s moveable tables and chairs offer several configuration possibilities. Today we’ll share five options for arranging the classroom and suggestions for how to use the Verb boards that attach to the tables and hang from wall mounts.
Arrangement #1: Presentation/Lecture with Paired Work Groups
Arranging the desks facing both the screen and the front two whiteboards also allows for an instructor or student presenter(s) to be clearly visible. The aisle down the center allows an instructor to move around the room and interact with all students.
By positioning students in groups of two, an instructor can create paired work groups for both short activities or longer assignments. Students have easy access to the Verb boards that hang off the sides of the tables.
Arrangement #2: Six Groups of Four
This configuration allows for six groups of four, which is ideal for small group work. The arrangement provides each student group with a large collaborative workspace and allows them to make eye-contact with their peers as they work together.
Students have access to one Verb board per student and can display individual or group work performed on the Verb boards from the table-top board holders or from the board hanger located at the top of the large wall whiteboards. In this configuration, there is plenty of accessible white board surface for student work.
This configuration allows enough space for both the instructor and students to move about the classroom.
Arrangement #3: Three Groups of Eight
This arrangement is useful for large group collaborations. Ample space allows students and instructors to easily move about the room and access all types of whiteboard surfaces.
Arrangement #4: Four Groups of Six
This arrangement is useful for group collaborations of six students. Ample space allows students and instructors to easily move about the room and access all types of whiteboard surfaces.
Arrangement #5: Class Forum
This arrangement seats 22 students. An extra table is pushed to the side to make room for the lectern in the front corner. In this configuration, the entire class can engage in a discussion with clear view of other participants. To further clear space for student work, the unused table can hold student belongings.
The configurations we’ve discussed here are just a few examples of what’s possible in Geology GY 4069, located on the Bloomington campus. If you’d like to share your own ideas, please add them to the comments below. If you’ve taught in GY 4069 before and want to share your own experiences in this room, contact us mosaic@iu.edu to write your own blog.
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