Which seating arrangement allows for total group discussion where limited or no small-group activities are required?

The choice of a conference seating arrangement is ideal for total group discussion because it encourages interaction among all participants. In a conference setup, chairs are typically arranged around a table or in a way that aligns participants facing each other, promoting eye contact and a collaborative atmosphere. This configuration allows everyone in the group to engage in dialogue more easily, share ideas, and contribute to discussions without barriers that might exist in other arrangements.

In contrast, traditional seating tends to line participants in rows facing the front, which can limit interaction and discussions. Hollow square arrangements, while conducive to dialogue, usually involve a more structured format that can facilitate some small-group work or presentations, potentially diverging from a total group focus. An auditorium or theater arrangement is designed primarily for presentations and lectures, where audience interaction is minimal and participants are generally seated in fixed rows, making it less effective for discussions where input from all is required.