Informal education in museums is structured through movement in space. This article summarizes a range of research that examines the role of spatial layout in shaping the ways in which visitors explore, engage, and understand museums and museum exhibitions. It is demonstrated that behavior patterns are systematically linked to spatial…

This study of almost 600 students examines the relationship between sense of community and college dormitory architecture on the campus of a small residential liberal arts college in the Northeast. Respondents of all class years completed an online survey that included the Sense of Community Index and the Relationship dimension of the University…

The purpose of this article is to explore spatial orientation and wayfinding behavior of newcomers in an unfamiliar environment and to emphasize the importance of landmarks and spatial differentiation in the acquisition of environmental knowledge. One setting with a symmetrical layout and regularly organized, monotonous units on different floors…

The effects of different types of participation in planning dormitory environments was surveyed using sample populations of students at Cornell University. It was concluded that users want to participate in decisions concerning environments important to them. Participants, it was concluded, want also to work with experts. (RE)

Describes results of a study of the work activities, priorities, and degree of satisfaction with the office environment of faculty at a California university. Implications for office design are discussed. (Author/WB)

Taking the position that every possible role for the evaluator supports some type of social perspective, the authors examine three available advocative roles: technician, facilitator and instigator. These roles are discussed in relation to evaluation in general and built environment evaluation in particular. (WB)

Examines the status of postoccupancy evaluation, which is the study of the effectiveness of designed environments for their human users. Issues addressed include generality, breadth of focus, applicability, sponsorship, methodology, and future directions. (WB)

Reports findings of a two-part study on the influence of dormitory architecture on patterns of social relations among college undergraduates. The first part investigates how dormitory architecture affects patterns of freshman acquaintance, while the second part studies changes in these relationships over the college years. (Author/WB)