An often overlooked aspect of effective instruction is the layout of the physical space within a classroom. Teachers who are tasked with instructional obligations and student achievement may not have a lot of time to consider the most efficient utilization of classroom space. Whether your classroom is large or small, maximizing the space that is available is vital for productivity, organization, collaboration, and overall success during the school year!
Make the most out of your space with these 5 simple ways to efficiently maximize space in the classroom while increasing productivity and instructional time!
1. Analyze Classroom Set-Up and Make Adjustments
The first way to efficiently maximize classroom space is to analyze how the class is set up in terms of furniture. This may include where the teachers' desk and students' desks are located, whether a rowed approach, a quad approach, or a circular arrangement is most optimal. Many factors may play into this decision such as grade level, academic subject, and developmental nature of the classroom. Depending on the classroom makeup of students and the physical layout/dimensions of the classroom teachers may have to employ several trials to determine which approach is optimal. Another consideration may be classroom organization based on specific lessons and academic objectives. In a student collaboration or peer teaching model a quad approach- 4 desks grouped together- may be most effective in lesson implementation.
2. Store Away Items That You Don't Need Daily
3. Maximize Vertical Space in the Classroom
Maximizing and utilizing vertical space in the classroom is an efficient way to organize storage and materials while maximizing space in the classroom. Any time that you are able to store materials upwards, instead of outwards, you will be saving precious space that you will be able to use for other items or activities! It is important to consider an over-the-door organizer that creates more vertical storage space and is easily accessible. Be sure to check out this useful video on creating an over-the-door organizer for your classroom!
4. Reduce Visual Clutter
5. Utilize Compact and Versatile Charging Solutions
In conclusion, classroom space should be organized in accordance with many factors such as grade level, academic subject area, lesson type, and learning objectives. Teachers may associate lesson plans with a classroom layout or map to facilitate preparation and to gain optimal effects. Consideration should be given to mobility and classroom navigation concerns to enable easy transitions. Classroom use of technology, such as Google Classroom, helps to eliminate excessive use of paper and helps to streamline assignments and grading. Google Classroom in addition to compact and versatile charging solutions, such as the Essential Charging Stations, will increase productivity while maximizing classroom space. Lastly, any items not used on a daily basis should be stored in closets or storage cabinets to reduce clutter and increase the overall appeal of the classroom.
Learn more about solutions that help maximize space in the classroom!