This paper reviews the literature primarily outside of educational circles on three topics--ergonomics, anthropometry, and proxemics--that affect the learning environment. It also discusses some implications in the hope that research and dialogue can be stimulated. (JOW)

In 1983 the Oklahoma Legislature adopted facility guidelines for the purpose of defining, organizing, and encouraging the planning of adequate environments for education. The guidelines contained in this booklet have been designed to allow for the requirements of all Oklahoma school districts regardless of size or educational program. The…

West Hartford, Connecticut, found ways to renovate old buildings to meet today's educational demands, yet chopped about $10 million off the original estimate. (Author)

Author discusses the importance of proper acoustics to a learning environment. In addition, he gives pointers on various accoustical treatments. Basic to his suggestions is his belief that not only the construction of an area, but also its ultimate purpose must be considered in the planning. (Author)

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…

This paper describes findings of a study that integrated design patterns to illustrate prototypical school designs. The present work is part of a more comprehensive study conducted on the impact of school facilities on educational performance. The paper focuses on the third part of the study, which developed 27 design patterns to create integrated…

Caudill, Rowlett, and Scott, a firm of architects, planners, and engineers, present their method of campus planning for Pima County Junior College. The elements which shape the physical form of PCJC are analyzed and represented by diagrams and sketches. From the analysis of the educational program, the site characteristics, and the budget, the…

This guide provides a comprehensive method for measuring the quality and educational effectiveness of school facilities and may be used to perform a post-occupancy review; to formulate a formal record; to highlight specific appraisal needs; to examine the need for new facilities or renovations; or to serve as an instructional tool. Suggestions are…

A research project was undertaken to develop a handbook for secondary school industrial arts programs in North Dakota relative to the educational specifications on facilities and instructional equipment. Among the procedures used to determine these needs were a literature search for such guidelines in other states, a review of the restructured…

A guide to future physical plant development is outlined for Michigan Technological University, Houghton Campus. Consideration is given to the existing campus situation, concept development, plan description, and the development plan which is included as an insert. (RK)

Argues well-designed middle schools support the physical, social, cognitive, and emotional changes students experience. Promotes a design that is a hybrid of the home-based, child-centered elementary model and the elective-based, campus high school model. Focuses on enabling cross-curriculum, interdisciplinary team instruction in smaller,…

The planning and design of child care centers has been undertaken without sufficient knowledge of children's spatial behavior, resulting in centers not providing appropriate physical conditions for young children's developmental needs. Research suggests that physical environment is important in supporting child development. Child care settings…

Provides strategies for school-level personnel to take an active role in improving how their facility functions in the education process. Includes advice on seeking a role in facilities design, encouraging the district to use facilities management tools, considering the unusual, and championing the cause of better school facilities. (SD)

Provides examples of middle school facilities design considerations for both new and remodeled buildings. Argues that the planning process is critical and offers advice including developing and reviewing the philosophy, selecting planning participants, conducting a Futures Workshop, beginning the process, planning at the microlevel, research, and…

Developed to meet the need for a comprehensive, up-to-date instrument to measure the quality of school facilities, this guide has as its purpose the evaluation of school facilities in terms of their general condition and suitability to meet the educational program of the school system and community. Appraisal criteria are categorized according to…