Horseshoe/ Semi Circle Arrangement

The horseshoe method, or otherwise known as the semi circle arrangement, is the second most popular seating arrangement behind the traditional row method. This method promotes discussion between both student-teacher and also student-student and can help to control behaviour within the semi-circle. By opening up the classroom layout, an increase in overall communication is created by allowing uninterrupted eye contact and focus by all of the people involved. This method is most suited to smaller classes that wish to deal with higher-order thinking that is fostered by interaction between students and the teacher.  

Figure 3: Simonds, C & Cooper, P 2014, Communication for the Classroom Teacher, Pearson Education, Essex

While there has been less research regarding the interaction models within the horseshoe arrangement, the students most likely to interact are those sitting directly across from the teacher's position. As seen in Figure 3, students at the sides of the horseshoe also reported higher levels of interactions, with very few students displayed low interaction. This is because of the open layout of the table arrangement that promotes student engagement and interaction.  

However, the horseshoe method does not suit all situations. For example, having a large class is not conducive to the horseshoe method because of the dead space that is created in the centre of the room. Also, the interactive pressure placed upon students who are less comfortable with classroom participation may cause anxiety issues, which, in turn, will affect their learning outcomes. This particular issue is one that teachers should consider before implementing the horseshoe method because some students may not contribute at all due to the pressure they feel is placed upon them.