Describes "black box" classrooms, which incorporate audiovisual and information technologies to provide an inherently flexible learning environment. Details various technological components of such classrooms. (EV)

Asserts that successful classroom upgrades involve an examination of five areas: program fit within an existing building, technology utilization, regulatory compliance, building systems, and aesthetics. A successful renovation project also requires an extensive planning process that includes input from teachers, school administrators, and parents.…

Examines recent trends in technology education and how learning success can be influenced by effective design. Describes several technology labs, including those in which modular units replace typical classrooms and curriculum, and discusses the environments necessary to accommodate successful project-based learning. (EV)

The traditional two-teacher school in Queensland is high-set, providing two classrooms, services room, and verandah upstairs, and a concreted area underneath. This plan re-arranges the traditional two-teacher school to fit a linear multiple-area plan (which can, with minor variations, be adapted to up to a four-teacher school). The plan…

A comfortable, colorful classroom may help motivate children to learn. Suggestions for decorating walls, making children's furniture, and organizing a private place are discussed. (DF)

Presents K-12 and college classrooms considered outstanding in a competition, which judged the most outstanding learning environments at educational institutions nationwide. Jurors spent two days reviewing projects, focusing on concepts and ideas that made them exceptional. For each citation, the article offers information on the firm, client,…

Explains how Project Oriented Development Stations (PODS) provide a flexible facilities solution that can fit within any elementary school, and that combines custom furnishing with technology, curriculum, and hands-on learning. An explanation of the POD approach and an example of its development, usefulness, and funding is provided. (GR)

Presents responses from the nation's leading educational architectural firms concerning design ideas anticipated to have an important role in the design of future school facilities. Ideas on classroom and flexible-learning-environment designs, schools as community resources, generic lab modules, and designs that integrate technology are included.…

Workshop articles address the importance of room arrangement in early childhood settings: "Creating Environments that Intrigue and Delight Children and Adults" (Wendy Shepherd and Jennifer Eaton); "3 Keys to Flexible Room Arrangement" (Elizabeth Prescott); "Mood: The Spirit of Place" (Anita Rui Olds); and…

Discusses research on the impact of the physical environment of the classroom on student behavior and attitudes, and offers guidelines for designing informal classrooms. Encourages school personnel concerned with creating positive learning environments to pay more attention to the physical environment. (Author/NRB)

Teachers are responsible for making sure that classroom space is used in the most effective manner. Ways in which a group of teachers cooperated to change a dreary, cramped old school into an exciting learning environment are described. (JN)

Offers guidelines for planning a prototype multimedia classroom and discusses its technology components and arrangement. The prototype development is illustrated, highlighting design factors like cabinets for easy storage and accessibility; a "presentation wall" where technologies may be used and assimilated simultaneously; and…

Examines the notion of an early childhood education center organized as a series of houses around a common core of shared facilities. Discusses examples of child-care centers in Sweden and explores ideas that can promote functional facilities. Suggestions include ideas about physical-motor activities areas, administration offices, centralized…

Described is an index method that will help art teachers design, maintain, and control art classroom settings. The following topics are also discussed: the historical background for environments, the emerging role of the classroom environment, humane qualities in the classroom, and flexible qualities in the classroom. (RM)

Provides specific guidance to teachers planning activity areas and storage spaces to create an environment that supports children and how they learn. Areas of consideration include order, independence, comfort, materials, and boundaries. Hints for discovering unused space, including small and large storage projects, are provided. (SD)