When considering the
furniture for a training room, flexibility seems to be the key issue for most
companies. Many can only devote a certain amount of space to training. For
example, the same furniture may be used for computer based training in the
morning and might then be used to accommodate a role playing exercise in the
afternoon. Experts say that tables, chairs, and walls can often make or break a
training session.
This piece of furniture has
been used since the early days of public speaking. There are two common types
available today, floor and tabletop. The Floor Lectern
( such as the AmpliVox Elite, Presidential
Plus, Executive or Sound Column
models) is freestanding and usually accommodates lights and a sound system.
Many trainers prefer a smaller format lectern because it
creates less of a barrier between them and their class. Tabletop
Lecterns (like the AmpliVox S250, the EZ Speak and ShowStyle Roving Rostrum) allow a lower profile and openness with the
class. They are placed on top of a table and the extra table space can be
helpful for keeping papers and lecture material close at hand.
The Facilitator Table is
a hybrid of the lectern and has come about in the last decade. This piece of
furniture accommodates an overhead projector, CPU, and a tabletop lectern. It is
used mainly as a teaching station. Many trainers prefer this because it permits
them to control all lesson materials and functions from one location.
Flexibilityand
Storage - Determine if the tables will need to be moved
around or fixed.
WireManagement
- If computers are being used, be sure the tables can
accommodate the electrical hook ups.
Size and Shape - 30”
x 60” and 24” x 60” are the most commonly used table sizes.
Design - Matching design with other furniture and equipment in the
room creates a pleasant environment.
Spacing - When
using 30” deep tables, allow at
least 66” from table front to table front (72” inches is ideal.) When 18” deep tables are being used, 54” provides adequate
space but 60” is ideal.
Stacker or Folding
chairs - inexpensive,
used where space is a premium, for sessions under two hours, provide little
adjustment for the user who may get restless and lose focus after a while.
Task or Ergonomic chairs -
used
when participants are asked to sit for long periods of time. Make sure it is
height adjustable by at least 6 inches, arm rests should enable the trainee
to rest their arms flat, creating a 90 degree angle at the elbow. Casters also add mobility and can save time and
effort when reconfiguring the room. One word of caution: the chairs
should not be too comfortable, or you may lose your audience to sleep.
