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

>Date: Tue, 19 Mar 2002 09:31:43 -0500
>To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum    <[log in to unmask]>
>From: Judy Shoaf <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: #6577 Keyboard trays a good thing??
>In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]>

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A better way to spend money to save space is on flat-screen monitors.
I've noticed that when students don't need a keyboard they usually tuck it 
back away beside the monitor. Our furniture is converted tape-lab booths, 
and the slanted surface that used to hold the tape players is just right 
for the keyboards!
Despite using the old furniture and a rather sloppy installation (in terms 
of the wires dangling) people coming into the lab who see the flat-screens 
gasp at how new and beautiful it all is...!

Judy Shoaf
University of Florida


At 08:09 AM 3/19/02 -0500, you wrote:
>--- 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