

Typically tables are arranged in small squares or rectangles with 4-6 seats around them. Typically this set-up is used when you have a large participant group. Chairs can be arranged lining up in rows or in a chevron (a wide V) to increase participant visibility. Chairs only are arranged for viewing a lecture or visual aid. Handouts can be easily distributed and breaking the group into pairs or dividing the participants into 2 large groups can be facilitated with this set-up. The tables provide a writing surface for note taking. This training room layout is great when an instructor is demonstrating a process or is using visual aids. Setting up the tables to create a large U shape or horseshoe allows all participants to be able to see the presenter at all times. The facilitator can be placed at one end or in the middle of the longer side. This set up is ideal when the participants need to act as one group to make decisions and discuss content. The shape can also take the form of a solid or hollow square. Placing rectangular tables up against each other to create a large rectangular table and then arranging the seats around the perimeter is called a boardroom set-up. Arrange small tables in a row with 2 seats per desk or create long rows of tables with chairs on one side of the row facing the presenter. This tried and true training room layout has its advantages if the participants will be doing individual work or work in pairs. The following illustrations demonstrate some common training room set-up examples. it is not for presenting from a seated position. While the presenter has a chair, it is recommended to be used when the participants are involved in an activity i.e. The following set-ups include 7 rectangular tables, 12 participant chairs, 1 presenter chair and a screen. To maximize the learning, consider how the room set-up will allow for interaction and learning. Different set-ups allow for different types of learning. There are many ways to set up a training room for a workshop. How tables and chairs are arranged in a classroom or conference room is dependent on how the content will be delivered to workshop or course participants.
