Contribution: Practical active learning stations (PALSs)-equipped classrooms function similar to prototypical active learning classrooms (ALCs). They support student collaboration and active learning pedagogies but at a fraction of the cost. Background: Active learning pedagogies and active learning technology are revitalizing STEM education and…

In Cynthia Selfe's "Technology and Literacy: A Story about the Perils of Not Paying Attention," she advises that composition teachers "have to pay attention to technology." Similar to Brittany B. Cottrill's discussion of issues of access, this reflective piece pays attention to another issue concerning technology, specifically…

Interactive tabletops are gaining increased attention from CSCL researchers. This paper analyses the relation between this technology and teaching and learning processes. At a global level, one could argue that tabletops convey a socio-constructivist flavor: they support small teams that solve problems by exploring multiple solutions. The…

This article reviews the research and evidence about multi-touch tables to provide an analysis of their key design features and capabilities and how these might relate to their use in educational settings to support collaborative learning. A typology of design features is proposed as a synthesis of the hardware and physical characteristics of the…

This section will reflect on two different classroom designs from my own teaching experience: one that required students to bring laptops and one that required only paper and pen. Because traditional classrooms were likely designed without taking technology into consideration, teachers should be aware of what the design of the classroom says about…

In an increasingly global world, where events in one corner of the world simultaneously affect other remote areas of the planet, global competition is becoming a continuously evolving phenomenon. Competition is also increasingly becoming an individual endeavor. Individual's own knowledge and skills will be the differentiators in a global economy.…

The bricks-and-mortar infrastructure of community colleges has not nearly kept pace with increases in student enrollments. Not only are colleges bursting at the proverbial seams, but, according to the American Graduation Initiative, many two-year institutions "face large needs due to deferred maintenance or lack the modern facilities and…

Discusses how maintaining a clear line of sight in computer labs helps students and teachers better see each other and affords better communication. Examples of line of sight considerations helps special needs students are offered. (GR)

Discusses the importance of designing for comfortable, effective interfaces between students and computers in classrooms. Explores the use of research and classroom mock-ups to ensure appropriate design. (EV)

The article describes ways to encourage effective classroom computer use. Setup of the computer corner is crucial. A friendly corner should include things like explanatory posters, disk boxes, a digital clock, earphones, a timer, chairs, and a wheeled cart. A sign-up sheet encourages efficient scheduling, which is also critical. (SM)

Examines how computer labs in elementary schools should be designed to create an information-rich environment that lets students easily interact while learning new skills. Stresses computer lab designs that result in flexible multiple-purpose spaces that encourage students to collaborate. (GR)

This narrative inquiry reveals some behavior of digital-era students learning writing in a new digital classroom. The teaching methods, the physical design of the classroom, and the impact of the new technology are observed, along with the pedagogical theories in use. I suggest that a basic and significant change in students' writing behavior has…

Discusses the challenges that schools face in keeping pace with rapidly changing technology in the school environment. Explores the spaces, furnishings, and planning and design issues that must be considered to successfully integrate computers into learning environments. (GR)

How technology and changes in instructional techniques has altered the classrooms are examined. Issues concerning classroom space, interior lighting, ventilation, computers in the classroom are discussed. Concluding comments address outfitting a classroom to accommodate audiovisual presentations. (GR)

Discusses the teaching methods shaping the classroom of tomorrow, where sixth graders carry laptops and teachers work in teams. Space requirements for departmentalized vs. interdisciplinary education are examined as are the types of materials and furniture used in design classrooms for block scheduling, and differing instruction methods changing…