Page 201 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

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190 The Creative Training Idea Book

FIGURE 5-6. “V”, fishbone, or chevron style seating (without tables,
using overhead projector)

“V”, Fishbone, or Chevron Style Seating (without Tables) (Figure 5-6)
It offers all the advantages and disadvantages of the theater style seating. Some limited
trainer access to the group can be provided by placing an aisle down the center of the
room and putting chairs on either side; however, more room is required when this is
done. Participants can be provided better viewing of the front of the room by offsetting
even numbered rows, which will allow viewing between the two people sitting in front
of each participant in those rows.

Moderate Learner Involvement Configurations (with Tables)
U-Shaped Seating (with Tables) (Figure 5-7)

Setup
The end of the first participant table on each side of the facilitator should be positioned
approximately even with the front edge of the instructor’s table. Chairs are placed
around the outer edges of the participant tables so that all learners are facing the center
of the “U.” Additional participants can be added by also placing chairs inside the “U”
so that learners are on both sides of tables. This can help increase networking and com-
munication while better facilitating small group activities. To prevent the feeling of
being in a bowling alley (e.g., long distance from the front of the room to the farthest
table in the “U”), the width and length of the table setup should be approximately the
same. Additional tables or chairs can be placed in corners of the room for use with break-
out activities.

Maximum no. of participants
Twenty-four. This number can be increased by placing chairs on the inside of tables
within the “U.”