Reasons Why School Computer Labs Still Matter

As the students are getting used to carrying personal laptops, it is essential to justify the need for computer labs. The computer labs remain active in most schools even today for many reasons. A few schools have not substituted the traditional computer lab chairs, tables, and working system with the latest advancements and trends. They believe that the recent improvisations cannot offer students certain things. Academics is not only about book knowledge; it includes inculcating and acquiring various essential skills for life. In the article below, let us discuss what is the need for computer labs in schools in today’s world.

Reasons Why Schools Retain Computer Labs Along With Its Old-fashioned Computer Lab Chairs?

Some people believe that changes in technological advancements may bring an end to the computer labs in schools. But educators recommend using the computer labs continuously as they provide the best structured learning environment for starters. We have consolidated five key reasons why school computer labs are necessary. Portable computers are advantageous for virtual learning. Fixed PCs, computer lab chairs and tables offer:

• More screen space than mobile devices
• Better ergonomics

A PC that has a powerful processor is a must-have while learning subjects like engineering, advanced programming and video editing. The size of the screen improves the working efficiency of students. A full-sized keyboard is easy to operate and facilitates continuous work for long hours without discomfort. When the students gain more information on-screen, they spend less time clicking and swapping between windows and tabs. The health benefits of a full-sized monitor are numerous. These monitors develop the right posture with regards to the height of the computer lab chairs. This reduces or prevents the discomfort and strain, which leads to herniated discs. If the top of the computer screen display is below eye level, it may cause a considerable strain on the neck. Students using laptops always face this problem, so it is highly recommended to use a full-size adjustable monitor.

Advantages of Using Traditional Computer Lab Along With Computer Lab Chairs & Furniture

The pros of using the computer lab without renovation include:

• Each student has a machine to operate. Computer labs always have sufficient machines with computer lab chairs so that every student gets a chance to sit and access them.
• Students gain specialised computer education as they are not just provided with computers but also have a teacher to help them learn. This is known as focused computer literacy.
• You cannot expect a school to put a lot of technology in its classroom if it does not have a library. Thus, computer labs offer access to large tech initiatives in schools with sufficient funding and libraries.
• Computer labs are the best solution to provide digital learning for students.

Ways to Transform the Computer Lab to Meet Current Needs

There is no specific way to design a modern computer lab. You have to analyse the objectives of the space and the ways by which your students will use them. Begin with the number of students you intend to accommodate and purchase flexible computer lab chairs accordingly. After deciding the type of learning, finalise on technologies to be invested in. It maybe:

• Remote, online and research
• Content creation and collaboration
• Testing and studying
• Individual and group work
• Tutoring, socialising and studying

There are different zones in learning spaces. They are:

Individual Work Zones

The individual work zone has small cubbies with partitions for privacy fitted with compact computer lab chairs. These are useful for students to operate their personal devices like laptops and tablets. The cubbies can accommodate an array of tech accessories and full-sized monitors. The individual work zone has a PC-powered workstation that is fully decked out to support various project works and STEAM learning.

Collaboration Zones

Collaboration zones are useful for group works and project-based activities with modular furnishings. When students can reconfigure their computer lab chairs and tables to suit their needs, the space is called a collaboration zone. Here more importance is given to power sourcing points and Wi-Fi connectivity. A collaboration space has a 24-inch monitor placed at a wide angle for students to visualise the contents of group presentations and projects.Last but not least, students must be able to share content by quickly connecting through Wi-Fi.

Social Learning Zones

Social learning zones have a less structured area that allows students to collaborate and learn casually. They have soft furnishings like café tables and informal computer lab chairs to set a relaxed mood. This area is expected to encounter a lot of conversation with a high degree of noise. Plan acoustics accordingly. The social learning zones have monitors with an IPS panel which provides excellent features and supports collaboration. Such monitors have numerous viewing angles without a shift in contrast and colour. If you have no budget constraint, you can invest in 4K resolution monitors to offer the best visuals. An ultra-HD monitor has a notable visual impact when viewed at close ranges. This enhances any collaborative project work.

The Bottom-line

Computer labs offer the space which helps students to develop essential skills which they cannot acquire from theoretical knowledge. As classroom hours are limited, teachers find no time to provide additional activities for developing the personality of a student. But computer labs are the best place for students to learn to be independent, to do research and explore various skills. Computer learning sessions train students in basic typing skills and advanced editing skills. Inspace school furniture, one of the successful school furniture suppliers in Chennai make products that reflect class with smooth edges, stylish designs and seamless finishes. We offer international quality products that meet the industry standards and customise products to suit the requirements of the user.