Preparing Your Physical Classroom

Bitmoji of facilitator waving hello

Message from your peer facilitator: 

For the fall semester, experiment with different setups for your classroom that will allow you to successfully teach, whether in the online environment or face-to-face. In the physical classroom, try different arrangements with the tables/desks to see what setup "flows" better for your teaching.

 4.9 PREPARING YOUR PHYSICAL CLASSROOM

CSUN classroom photo

Know where to go?

Find your building on the Campus Map.

 

Keys

Most classrooms on campus are unlocked and open.  Labs usually need a code, so find out if you need a code to access the room.  Some larger lecture rooms have a keyed podium that contains things like a DVD player, computer, etc.  Check to see if you'll need a podium key.

 

Classroom Technology

Significant changes have recently been made to classrooms across the campus. These upgrades include new projectors, touch panels, ceiling mounted cameras and microphones. This will allow every space to have lecture capture capabilities as well as upgraded technology for use with your peripheral devices (laptops). For more information about these upgrades and several helpful videos on how to use the new touchscreens, check out IT Classroom Technology. 

 

Come Prepared

You will have much of what you need available (e.g., a computer, projector, chalk or whiteboards, etc.) in a classroom. A few additional things to bring with you are:

  • Dry erase markers or chalk, depending on the classroom you are assigned
  • A personal computer if you wish to use it in lieu of the classroom computer (you will also need an adapter if you use a Mac)

Active Learning

FacDev has created this resource on preparing your classroom for active learning strategies, particularly for those faculty teaching in Maple Hall which has rooms designed for active learning. You should also consider signing up for Get Up To Speed with Active Learning, a self-paced, asynchronous program to support faculty who want to incorporate active learning strategies into their teaching. 

 

Need Help?

As covered in the previous module, you can call x1500 from your classroom phone for classroom tech support.

✔️ To Do:

📌 Bring chalk or whiteboard markers, depending on your classrooms

📌 If your class is in a lab or large lecture room, find out if you'll need a code or key

📌 Check the touchscreen and computer setup in each of your classrooms so you're familiar with the tech before the first day of class

We've covered the classroom, so next we'll move to the campus policies related to teaching.