Sensory experiences are the foundation of the learning process, regardless of cognitive ability. However, within the context of students with special needs, the sensory experience may focus on therapeutic and psychological relaxation without necessarily having clearly defined educational goals that directly improve learning. The frequently used…

For 20 years, the author has promoted constructing today's schools with the future in mind, yet as many school districts begin planning for the year 2050, he is starting to think this foresight/forethought might actually be a distracting course of action. Some districts may try to plan so far into the future that they neglect the present. But,…

Describes how educational facility design impacts learning style needs that act as the basis for cognitive learning. Recommends involving cognitive learning specialists, interior environmental planners, and creative engineering personnel in the planning and design process to enhance learning, maximize technology use, and improve educational…

George Washington Bush Middle School (Washington) is built to accommodate a design and technology program. Technology education and information resource areas are located centrally to a cluster of eight general classrooms. (MLF)

Discusses ways that schools can evolve to support new teaching and learning paradigms into the new millennium. Argues that 21st-century schools will be smaller, cheaper, and more efficient; simply constructed; revenue generators that are privately financed; integrated with social, governmental, and business entities; will provide multiple,…

Faced with increasing enrollment and state legislation requiring more laboratory work, this school system hired an architectural firm to devise a cost-effective "District-wide Science Facility Master Plan." The process of developing that plan and some of its conclusions are described here. Illustrations are provided. (DCS)

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…