Open Space

After discussion the other day, I realized the impact of space. On Thursday, our usual open circle enclosed into a much more welcoming setting. I have found that over the course of this year's discussions, the gaps between both sides of the room have created many problems. First of all, I tend to have difficulty hearing my neighbor let alone the students all the way across the room. This conflict leads to numerous interruptions, embarrassment for the interrupter, and repeats on previously discussed material. I also find the space, in a sense, overwhelming. In one of my previous passages, I commented on my difficulty with public speaking. Although I have improved, I still find the huge hole in the middle of our room to be problematic. It creates a spotlight on the person speaking rather than an enclosed circle of conversation where everyone has something to input. The ability to closely interact with others in our class allows students to focus and sort out the text efficiently. Last Thursday, I felt as though our class discussion turned into an in depth conversation rather than contest who could speak the most. The main reason for this change was, I believe, our compacted space.