Assessing Issues of Computer Lab Configurations

Depending upon the resources available to develop or revise teacher training, a program administrator may be asked to propose the layout and design of computer space. This design work is often more complicated than the mere layout of computer stations, tables, white boards, projection screen, and peripherals. The space will affect the type of interactions among students, teachers, and administrators. Assuming that some of the training will be conducted in the space might also impact the final plans for configuration. This section provides information about some of the most common computer layouts. These layouts are depicted along with their potential pedagogical benefits and drawbacks. Knowing that the choice of layout is among only one of many design choices for the computer space, an extensive bibliography on computer configurations is provided as a starting point for further research into the type of design appropriate for a particular program.