--- Forwarded Message from mclaughj <[log in to unmask]> ---

>Date: Tue, 19 Mar 2002 09:56:37 -0500
>Sender: mclaughj <[log in to unmask]>
>From: mclaughj <[log in to unmask]>
>To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum               <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: RE: #6577 Keyboard trays a good thing??

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We have 30 iMacs with 3 computers each on a long table.  There are no 
keyboard trays, so the keyboards lie on the table in front of each computer.  
Students still use books, notebooks, and write on paper in the lab.  There 
is no room to do this, so they will move the keyboards to the side as far as 
the cables allow.
   I would recommend getting the keyboard trays and having free space in 
front of the computer for books and paper.

Joe McLaughlin
Director, Modern Language Lab
[log in to unmask]
Canisius College
Buffalo, NY
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>===== Original Message From Language Learning and Technology 
International Information Forum              
<[log in to unmask]> =====
>--- Forwarded Message from "David Westerhof-Shultz" 
<[log in to unmask]> ---
>
>>Date: Wed, 13 Mar 2002 15:14:35 -0500
>>From: "David Westerhof-Shultz" <[log in to unmask]>
>>To: <[log in to unmask]>
>>Subject: Keyboard trays a good thing??
>
>------------------
>I am in the final stages of purchasing a new 65-70 position language 
lab. In getting down to making all the nitty-gritty decisions, I'm 
stumped--please don't laugh : ) at whether or not including keyboard trays 
at each student position is a good thing! Any thoughts??? Our existing lab 
has never utilized them, previously...
>
>Personally, I'm not a big fan of them, myself. They usually feel rather 
"clunky," and I can never get comfortable behind one. Maybe I've never 
spent enough time with one to get used to it. However, as we all know, the 
workstation's precious space is quickly gobbled up by the technology 
(CPUs, monitors, cassette decks, VCRs, keyboards, mice, etc.), leaving 
very little room for workbooks or notebooks.
>
>With this in mind, most (approx. 50) of my student positions will ONLY 
have a monitor, keyboard and mouse on the actual worksurface (if I 
choose NOT to have keyboard trays). But even so, I know that all 
remaining space is a prized commodity.
>
>I'd be curious to hear from any of you, your preferences and experiences 
using keyboard trays in your own labs.
>
>Many thanks in advance,
>
>David Westerhof-Shultz
>Director, Language Resource Center
>Grand Valley State University
>Allendale, MI