Desks update A&S classes

Ten Hoor and Rowand Johnson Halls received 700 new desks as part of an equipment upgrading process in several College of Arts and Sciences buildings, UA spokeswoman Cathy Andreen said.

The first floor in both buildings received some of the desks, which cost $242 a piece.

Associate Dean Tom Wolfe said the desks are a needed update to classroom equipment that could be nearly half a century old.

"We're trying to keep current and stay on the cutting edge," Wolfe said. "The old desks were simply made to sit in without much regard to the comfort of the student. These have a much more modern-day style, with a more comfortable seat and a larger writing tablet. They should add to the student's classroom experience."

Wolfe said the money for the desks came from the provost's office.

He also said Judy Bonner, UA provost, is working with the University as a whole to update and renovate classrooms and buildings.

"A lot of buildings across campus are getting attention, not just Arts & Sciences buildings," he said. "These were just the next two in line. [Bonner] is very dedicated to improving the areas where students spend a lot of their time on campus, and that's in the classroom."

Becky Florence, director of college relations, said A&S is also in the process of implementing and upgrading multimedia classrooms.

She said the college now has 75 multimedia classrooms, but the number will increase within the next few years.

Multimedia classrooms are those with technology capabilities. Wolfe said these classrooms also enhance students' classroom experience.

"It gives the classroom a third dimension," he said. "They allow the professor to do more than just write on a blackboard or give students hand-outs. It brings classes to a new level in terms of how students are learning the material."

Zach Mazzei, a freshman majoring in trumpet performance, said the desks may make it easier to learn in the classroom, but other technology may increase student workload.

"If the professors get through more material in their lectures we'll have to do more work," he said. "New desks will be more comfortable, and I can say I definitely learn better when I'm comfortable. But they'll probably make it easier to fall asleep, too."

JJ Houston, a freshman majoring in biology, said desk comfort level is an issue.

"If you're uncomfortable in class, that's just one more thing to distract you," he said. "If you're trying to pay attention in class the last thing you want is a distraction because of a desk that's just not comfortable. I think more comfortable desks will make the atmosphere of class easier to deal with."

Wolfe said last year the provost's office gave A&S nearly $450,000 for direct classroom improvement.