Desk Set-up

Another tough decision as a teacher is "How should I set-up the desks?". I have tried every desk configuration you can think of- rows (desks together and apart), U-shape, small groups & large groups put together. The one I like the best is a group of desks surrounding an empty desk. The empty desk in the middle can be used for supplies, books, a basket to turn in papers, etc. With the students all facing each other, they can learn to work as a group. I've attached a picture of my desks and a link that shows the importance of collaborative learning.

http://teaching.berkeley.edu/bgd/collaborative.html