6.4 Distance - Dictatorial Teaching

Speech intelligibility and a good visual connection are essential requirements for dictatorial teaching. Most learning environments will require a space where instruction and information can be transmitted to a large number of students at one time. It is therefore essential to have at least one or two areas dedicated to this type of teaching.

In order to maximise speech intelligibility during this type of teaching, the distance over which the spoken voice is required to travel should be minimised. Based upon acoustic on-site tests, it is advised that the distance between the teacher and pupils be kept less than 4.5m; however this distance does depend on background noise levels and other acoustic effects within the open plan environment.

To meet this requirement, seating layouts and furniture should to be considered. Images 1 & 2 show two example layouts incorporating a semi-circular and rectangular seating layout. It is clear that the more effective layout is the semi circular design.

A considerable reduction in communication distance can be made by removing tables and chairs. Raked seating is also an effective method, not only reducing the distance b between the teacher and pupils, but also improving the line of sight which in turn helps with speech intelligibility. This seating layout can be achieved by raising the pupils by means of small steps, cutting steps into the ground or raising the seating in the form of a Greek amphitheatre.