Most people want to compare the Innovative Arts classroom with their school’s STEM classroom layout, and that makes sense. In this post, I will be generating some ideas to help a new teacher create the best possible STEM classroom layout.

I made a video on the ‘World’s coolest classroom’ and hope it is helpful as a starting point.

When it comes to STEM education, the classroom layout can be just as important as the lesson plan. Having a well-thought-out layout can help create an inviting environment that encourages learning and collaboration. Here are some tips for crafting the perfect STEM classroom layout. 

Designating Areas for Special Activities and Projects 

One of the main elements of any successful STEM classroom is having designated areas for special activities and projects. This can include anything from science experiments to engineering projects and everything in between. These areas should be well-defined and clearly marked so students know exactly where they need to go when performing certain tasks or activities. It also helps if these areas are easily accessible so students do not have to search through the entire room when looking for something specific. Additionally, having multiple workstations set up throughout the classroom will help keep students engaged as they move from station to station completing different activities or tasks. 

STEM Classroom Layout Tip – Create a Space For Collaboration

Collaboration is key to success in any STEM classroom, so it’s important that there is enough space available for groups of students to work together on tasks or activities without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. This could be as simple as setting up two tables side by side instead of one large table or using desks arranged in a circle rather than in rows. It’s also helpful if you can create separate spaces within your room where groups can go to complete their projects without being disturbed by other groups working around them. 

STEM Classroom Layout Tip – Establish Quiet Zones 

If possible, it’s important that you establish some quiet zones within your room where students can go when they need some time away from the hustle and bustle of group work or class discussion. These zones should be free from distractions and allow students the opportunity to focus on their work without interruption. You can also use these quiet zones as spaces where you can meet with individual students who need extra help on certain topics or assignments. 

STEM Classroom Layout Tip – Create Special Areas 

Creating special areas in your classroom can help create an atmosphere of engagement and exploration. For example, you may want to designate an area specifically for hands-on activities such as building models or using 3D printing. You could also set up a computer lab with several laptops set up for coding activities or virtual reality projects. Or you could create a space for collaborative projects where students can work together in teams on their own projects.  

STEM Classroom Layout Tip – Utilize Technology

Technology is essential for any successful STEM classroom, so make sure you have all the necessary equipment ready to go before class begins. This includes computers with internet access, 3D printers, robotics kits, virtual reality headsets – anything that your particular lesson plan requires! Make sure all of this equipment is easy to access and use; there’s nothing worse than having great ideas but not having the tools necessary to make them into reality! 

STEM Classroom Layout Tip – Get Creative with Decoration 

Finally, don’t forget about decorations! While they may seem like a minor detail, decorations can really help set the mood in your classroom and inspire creativity among your students. You can hang posters related to science topics or decorate walls with quotes from famous scientists – whatever helps create an atmosphere of exploration and discovery for your students! 

Designating specific areas within your STEM classroom for special activities, group collaboration, and individual reflection is essential for creating an effective learning environment. By taking the time to plan out which areas of your room serve which purpose, you can ensure that all of your students have access to the resources they need when working on different tasks—and that their individual needs are met throughout their educational journey!

As a STEM teacher, check out the resources I am creating as I develop my ‘Innovative Arts’ class. They’re constantly growing!

I am creating this site to advance student creativity and help students to take ownership of their learning. The resources on this site are intentionally open-ended and a part of my Innovative Arts curriculum.

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