Here's a picture of Neil's church computer lab showing the divider BETWEEN tables (right) and the tri-fold panels we can move into position BEHIND our students to keep their "volume" within their space. The two computers here face another two computers about 15 feet across the room. The tri-fold panel we placed BEHIND the chairs helps cut down sound travelling across the room. I've searched for commercially available panels like this and can't find them in this shorter size. I'd be happy to post info if someone knows where to buy them.

Making your own tri-fold panels is relatively easiy, and it can help cut down computer volume in the room without isolating kids, or cutting the teacher out of the picture. Below is one method that uses inexpensive and lightweight rigid foam insulation panels (3 inch thick) cut to size and covered in cloth. Panels are "hinged" using vinyl tape (duct tape doesn't have long term holding power). A board attached to the bottom of the center panel provides stability when the tri-fold is deployed.

One cloth covered panel can easily be made to go between computers.

If you'd like to submit your picture(s) of your dividers/panels, or your suggestions on alternative construction, please do! Email Neil at sundaysoft@ee.net.