Information and communications technology (ICT) is affecting every part of our society. Education is no exception, but here the impact of ICT is fragmented at best. The purpose of this article is to conceptualize and develop the idea of the smart classroom that integrates emerging information technologies with advanced pedagogies. System…

Architects and designers have a responsibility to provide an inclusive built environment. However, for those with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the built environment can be a frightening and confusing place, difficult to negotiate and tolerate. The challenge of integrating more fully into society is denied by an alienating built…

It is widely recognized that technology in the classroom has the potential to transform education at every stage from Pre-K, to K-12, to Higher Education and Adult Education. Using the Digital Teaching Platform as an exemplar of 21st Century classroom instruction style, the author offers an overview of classroom technology and its effects on…

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…

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.…

A new pedagogy is emerging, placing students at the centre of the learning process and encouraging teachers to draw from a larger repertoire of strategies and skills to lead interdisciplinary and project-based work. The best learning is authentic--engaging students in their own learning in practical and real-life contexts that demonstrate the…

Describes issues involved when converting traditional classrooms into smart classrooms that include appropriate educational technology. Highlights include faculty training in advance; flexibility; design considerations; technical support; and an example based on experiences at Virginia Commonwealth University. (LRW)

Technology has advanced to the point where it is now possible to create and distribute digital multimedia recordings of class lectures over the Internet to remote learners. More importantly, the price of this technology has decreased to the point where it is also affordable to most instructional institutions. The main factor limiting its…

Designing and remodeling educational facilities are becoming more complex with options that include computer-based collaboration, classrooms with multimedia podiums, conference centers, and workplaces with desktop communication systems. This book provides a collection of articles that address educational facility design categorized in the…

Discusses the impact that new technologies are already having on programs and facilities, as well as predictions for the future. Discusses selected educational and facility technologies and the ways in which buildings and different kinds of classrooms can be made user-friendly. (Seven references) (LMI)

Presents a three-year case study of the conceptualization, design, funding, construction, and the installation and implementation of instructional systems for an instructional facility built in renovated office space at Syracuse University's School of Information Studies. The Digital Learning Center is a 48-seat technology classroom with distance…

Before 14 new lecture halls and 25 classrooms were designed, faculty at the University of Hong Kong were surveyed to determine their needs and preferences. Discusses results of the survey, design specifications for a "smart" classroom, computerized theater control systems, problems in the implementation of design requirements, and…

Describes the instructional, scheduling, and equipment needs that led to the design of "technology classrooms" at University of Maryland. Defines technology classrooms and discusses the development of design principles, procurement and installation, establishment of technology-support services, and lessons learned. (AEF)

A number of university campuses have undertaken the development of digital classrooms that enable presentation of digital media and digital lecture recording. Deploying the infrastructure for a digital classroom is difficult at best even for a technically savvy person. As people from many disciplines become interested in building similar digital…

To make effective use of a two-way interactive distance education system, classroom design should be a primary consideration. A properly designed classroom will enhance content objectives and increase acceptance of this type of instructional delivery. This paper describes key considerations for optimal design. Construction considerations include…