Describes issues related to the use of modular (relocatable) classroom facilities. The Modular Building Institute (www.mbinet.org) provides information on modular buildings. (PKP)

Discusses a holistic approach to preventing moisture penetration of exterior walls in modular school buildings. The problem of roof leaks in modular structures is examined as are approaches to water management, roof waterproofing, the problem of condensation, and the design of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems as it affects water…

Describes differences between two types of school facilities: portable (prebuilt, temporary wood structure installed on site) and modular (method of construction for permanent buildings). Provides details of modular construction. (PKP)

A Pennsylvania school district faced an immediate need for additional classroom space at a high school. In seven months, a module containing four relocatable classrooms was installed and is considered an attractive addition to the school campus. (MLF)

School planners in Phoenix (Arizona) have coped with unexpected student population shifts by interspersing permanent schools with modular ones. Desert Winds Elementary School, in a Phoenix suburb, was constructed entirely of relocatable modular units. (Author/MLF)

Highlights the history of the modular classroom industry and emergence of the Modular Building Institute. Analyzes the differences between temporary portable classrooms and permanent modular additions. Also examines the possible influence of modular classrooms on future facility design and the ways that educational facilities officials are saving…

The design team for the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) has pushed the state of the energy art to its current limits for the initial phase, with provisions for foreseeable and even speculative future applications. (Author/MLF)

Explains that classrooms and school furniture were built for a different era and often do not have sufficient power for technology, discussing what is needed to support modern technology in education. One solution involves modular cabling and furniture that is capable of being rearranged. Currently, there are no comprehensive standards from which…

Explains how modular buildings are uniquely qualified to solve space crunch problems, budgetary concerns, and time pressures when expanding and improving educational facilities. (GR)

By repeating innovative, modular building design and by teamwork among school executives, an architect, and a capital expenditure manager, this school system cut $32 per square foot from anticipated building costs. The district also achieved security, low maintenance, and pleasant learning environments. (PB)

This supplement presents three articles on modular construction that look at: "Fast Track Expansion for a New Jersey School" (involving a modular addition); "Precast Construction Helps Schools Meet Attendance Boom" (precast concrete components are quick, durable, and flexible); and "Airing HVAC Concerns" (poor indoor air quality in prefabricated…

Relocatable modular classrooms are valued for their flexibility, speed of occupancy, and economy. Manufacturers advise school districts to seek industry input when writing specifications for portable classrooms and to deal with reputable companies. (MLF)

Describes Capistrano (California) Unified School District's use of portable classrooms to solve overenrollment problems while complying with Governor Wilson's directive to reduce class size in primary grades. When evaluating the merits of relocatable classrooms, school leaders should consider acquisition and use, identification of responsible…

Review of academic library planning developments highlights modular design concept prevalent in 1960s. Problem areas (irregular shapes, interior or exterior courts, monumentality, too much or too little glass) and the use atria, designer lighting, monumental effects, and unusual shapes to relieve perceived monotony are discussed. Five sources are…

A Long Island, New York, school district has used portable classrooms to deal with the space problems caused by temporary spikes in student enrollment. The overall cost of using portable classrooms to solve long-term problems eventually surpasses the overall cost of building permanent structures. Lists guidelines for determining when to use…