Classroom Design By Students
I use multiple classroom configurations throughout the school year. In the beginning, I arrange desks to allow for cooperative teamwork and watch how various students interact with one another. It tells me a lot about how students process and learn information.
As the year progresses, I have students design the room. They have to use visual software (iPad or computer) to illustrate their design, and provide academic reasons for their choice. Students vote on the arrangement (with the teacher being the ultimate decider). Of course I get to choose who sits near whom, but I always allow for students to demonstrate they can be successful even when sitting near their BFF.
