How a room’s layout affects how people communicate, move about and learn. It can spoil an otherwise good workshop.
Cabaret Style
Tables set up in round or oval configurations with 4-6 people seated around each table are generally best for Workshops. People face each other easily for activities and a facilitator is able to move around between tables easily. However, it does mean that some people in the Workshop will have their back to the front of the room at times.
Horseshoe Arrangement
In a horseshoe configuration, a facilitator stands at the end of the ‘U’ shape and all participants can see the front of the room and each other in the workshop sessions. This layout is ideal for mixed presentations and discussions, with the facilitator managing the sessions, and is based on research into facilitated learning environments and how they affect participation.
Cluster Tables
Small tables scattered around a room enable flexible and mobile group work and easily change between different tasks within a workshop.
Theatre Layout
When arranging the chairs in rows facing the front of the room, be aware that these sorts of meetings don’t encourage discussion. The long rows of chairs and Lectern would be suitable for presentations which include very little interaction.
Boardroom Style
One long table means that everyone is connected; however, this layout does not lend itself to easy breakout sessions. This type of setup is ideal for smaller workshop groups of around eight or so people.
It is worth checking with venues that the meeting room can be re-arranged for a workshop style format. For Meeting Rooms Exeter, visit https://exeter.nettl.com/meeting-rooms.
Plan your meeting room layout in advance to save time re-arranging chairs and help a successful session.
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