In August, 1999, we received the following email:

What are the arguements supporting the use of the semi-recessed monitor in classrooms employing computer-based training?

First of all, we need to suggest - Why go to class if it's all on the computer?

If the purpose of your computer-based training (CBT) curricullum is to replace the trainer with the software, then going to class only makes sense if you need individual instruction and one-on-one assistance. If, however, the instruction is based on classroom interaction and uses the computer as an interactive enhancement or is focused on training in the use of computers, then the placement of the computer screen into a logical heirarchy within the context of the learning plane is crucial to the success of the classroom experience.

The classroom environment offers students the benefit of the wisdom of their peers. Questions are raised and original solutions are proposed. It offers students the benefit of their instructor's expertise in giving insight, weight and perspective to each topic that they would not have obtained from just the software. The classroom experience works best where the computer is viewed and used as one of the tools of learning but the computer, itself, is unobtrusive.

With that said, the prime concern becomes enhancing the students ability to interact with all of the elements of instruction in a balanced and ergonomic manner. Obviously, if the monitors are sitting on the desktop - even the smaller LCD flat screens - they become an obstacle between the student and what is going on at the front of the classroom. If the monitor is to the student's side or is set below the desktop surface, students may focus on either the computer or the classroom instruction and must physically change their posture or position to redirect their attention.

Placing the computer screen as close as possible to the horizontal focal plane, but well below the line-of-sight between the student and the instructor and presentation equipment, achieves a close approximation of a "heads-up display" by only requiring the student to change their depth of field when they change their focus of attention.

The other advantages of locating the computer slightly below the horizon line relate to the computer's heirarchal importance to the topic and method of instruction. The computer is a tool - the prime tool - of this type of classroom experience. To be of the highest utility, the equipment itself should not intrude other than to provide an ergonomic interface with the software. By encasing, concealing and protecting all of the equipment and necessary wires and cables, the ideal classroom workstation helps to create an environment where students are invited to sit comfortably and have - easily at hand and without distraction - all of the tools available to get the most from the classroom experience.

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