[elearning] new computer lab - ideas?

[Paul]

We are lucky enough that we are about to convert a classroom into a computer
lab for use by our prep - 6 students.
We are in discussion about whether to set it up as a conventional computer
lab with just desktops, or to have a combination of desktops and laptops.
If we went for desktops around the back of the room, and laptops on some
sort of moveable tables in the middle it would allow the room to be used for
other purposes.
It will be in a room next to a staff room, so it would be good to be able to
open up the double doors and extend the staff room into the lab when
necessary.
Perhaps these middle tables could be low tables with ottomans around them?
In this case we might hang power supply cables from the roof above the
tables?
Perhaps the laptops could be kept in a cage where they charge, and then be
taken out for use on a combination of ottoman tables and bean bags?
Or should we just have 28 desktops arranged around the back of the room and
on a couple of island desks in the middle?
Another idea would be to go with a full class set of laptops and get no
desktops at all?
What's the theory about the ergonomics of kids using laptops as opposed to
desktops?
As to colours in the lab, I'm thinking lime green, maybe a bit of burnt
orange, and definitely nice timber desktops.
The room is right next to where we are having a new entry built for the
primary part of our school, I want it to be a real showpiece.
I have also been looking into 'interactive tabletops'.. I've got big dreams
for this new room..
Any thoughts? Ideas? Encouraging contributions to my big dreams?

Paul Gorton
ICT / Computer Services Manager
Narre Warren South P-12 College
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