Which classroom arrangement gives the facilitator the highest control during sessions?

The theater-style arrangement is considered to provide the facilitator with the highest level of control during sessions. This setup typically features rows of seating facing the front, allowing the instructor to address the entire class without obstructions. It fosters a clear line of sight, making it easier for the facilitator to maintain attention and manage the dynamic of the classroom.

In this arrangement, the instructor is positioned in a more prominent role, which naturally encourages participation and engagement from the students who are seated in a manner that directs their focus forward. This control is particularly beneficial in larger classrooms where the facilitator needs to ensure all participants are included and focused, making it easier to steer discussions and address questions effectively.

Other arrangements, like the circle or U-shaped setups, foster more interaction among students but can dilute the instructor’s control since students may direct their attention toward one another instead of the facilitator. The boardroom arrangement allows for discussions and presentations but does not create the same level of visual dominance for the instructor compared to the theater-style format.