Group Collaboration Area with Boomerang Tables

Middle & High School Group Collaboration Space Design Solutions

Whether your school's collaboration space is in a media center, common area or a classroom, flexibility is key. Tables and chairs that can be easily arranged into large or small groups help students exchange ideas, and work on skills like compromise and active listening. Mobile storage units give students and teachers access to the supplies they need.

Requirements for a Great Group Collaboration Space

For Students

The ideal group collaboration space should give everyone an equal chance to participate, and the area must let students easily arrange themselves into groups of various sizes. Workspaces need to allow all team members to see each other without straining. Access to whiteboards, monitors or other media helps students and teachers present ideas.

For Teachers

The group collaboration space should ensure that moving between different teams for mentoring or idea exchange is simple. They should also be able to address everyone in the space to communicate assignments or demonstrate concepts. Access to whiteboards or other media allows teachers to post assignments or write ideas without interrupting students' work.

For Administrators

The group collaboration space will be arranged and furnished to achieve the goal for that space. They need to know that all products are available and will be delivered on time. Installations must be quick and efficient.

Group Collaboration Space Layout Areas

Group Workspace Areas

Allow students to easily arrange themselves in ways that help them to interact with each other effectively:

• Collaborative tables: Can be used individually for small groups but can be easily arranged into larger groups for projects. Tabletops easily wipe clean so they're sure to look great for years.
• Mobile seating: Constructed from durable, reinforced plastic supports students as they lean back. The smooth, anti-static seats don't require a metal backrest, which means students won't snag hair or clothing on exposed rivets. Rolling casters make it easy for students to move them around the room.
• Mobile dry erase easels: Can be easily rolled to workstations, so students can brainstorm and capture ideas on the fly. Two writing surfaces let students brainstorm on one side and present finished ideas on the other side. Easels can also be used to section off workspaces if needed.

Team Breakout Areas

Let smaller groups exchange ideas or do research:

• Planning tables: Feature spacious tabletops that accommodate devices, books and research materials.
• Flexible Seating: Allows students to easily configure themselves according to the group's needs. Flexible seats and backs keep students comfortable.
• Mobile shelving: Keeps reference materials and other supplies organized. Rolling casters make it easy to move the unit out of the way when needed.

Informal Gathering Spaces

Encourage students to use the area for socializing with friends between classes or after school. This space is also an ideal meeting space for after-school clubs:

• Soft chairs and sofas: Keep users comfortable as they talk with friends or work on assignments.
• Power-enabled furnishings: Give students a place to charge their devices.

Choosing Your Group Collaboration Space Solution

School Outfitters makes it simple to outfit your school's group collaboration space. Choose the option that best fits your budget and needs and get an itemized quote with just one click, including all three specially-designed solutions. Our helpful sales representatives are happy to answer questions about our solutions and how you can put them to use in your school.

Call us at 1-800-260-2776 for personalized assistance.

Group Collaboration Space Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a group collaboration space effective for middle and high school students?

An effective group collaboration space should give everyone an equal chance to participate and allow students to easily arrange themselves into groups of various sizes. Workspaces need to allow all team members to see each other without straining. Access to whiteboards, monitors, or other media helps students and teachers present ideas effectively.

How should collaborative tables be arranged for optimal group work?

Collaborative tables can be used individually for small groups but should be easily arranged into larger groups for projects. The table shapes should ensure all students can see each other for effective communication. Tables should have easy-clean tabletops that look great for years.

Why is mobile furniture important in collaboration spaces?

Mobile furniture allows for flexible arrangements to accommodate different group sizes and activities. Mobile seating with rolling casters makes it easy for students to move around the room. Mobile dry erase easels can be rolled to workstations for brainstorming and can also section off workspaces when needed.

What areas should be included in a comprehensive collaboration space?

A comprehensive collaboration space should include group workspace areas for project work, team breakout areas for smaller group discussions and research, and informal gathering spaces for socializing and after-school club meetings. Each area should have appropriate furniture and technology access.