Lack of commonly used vocabulary for informal learning environments hinders precise communication concerning what is observed, assessed, and understood about the relationship between space and learning. This study empirically extends taxonomies of terms and phrases that describe such relationships through content analysis of descriptions of…

Principals, teachers, students, and parents all have dreams for improving their schools, but often they do not have the funding to make their dreams come true. How can schools provide the additional financial support to make their dreams come true? Members of the Broughton High School community in Raleigh, North Carolina, found one answer: create…

As part of a districtwide construction and renovation program in Everett (Washington) an Art Deco auditorium was refurbished, theater support facilities were expanded into an old gymnasium, and cafeteria space was rebuilt to house studios. (MLF)

New York State Regents directed that new guidelines and "standards" be developed for technology infrastructures in educational facilities in order to assist administrators and educators in planning technology integration during retrofits, renovations, or new construction of educational facilities. This document provides the first draft…

Action to take if a roof starts to leak. (MLF)

This document presents a sample request for proposal that Arizona school districts can use when requesting architectural services, from the general request requirements to response information and signature sheet. General proposal requirements cover such areas as information on special terms and conditions, the scope of architectural services…

This report presents guidelines for establishing the educational rationale for Landscapes for Learners, a school grounds development initiative designed to support the curriculum while protecting children from health risks and providing high quality space in the community for education and recreation. The guidelines link the value of educational…

Energy conservation measures at Longmont High School (Colorado), including reducing air entry, heating water only during school hours, and lowering lighting levels, are expected to save 45 percent in natural gas usage and 20 percent in electric usage. (Author/MLF)

How to choose a consultant best suited for your building project. (Author)

A project is described that involved elementary school students in painting murals to enhance their school's interior. (DS)

This guide suggests ways to prevent specific kinds of common school accidents by incorporating safety into curriculum areas. Strategies for accident prevention are organized by grade level under these categories: (1) Introductory Strategies; (2) Classroom; (3) Schoolyard; (4) Gymnasium and Playing Field; (5) Cafeteria; and (6) School Building. A…

This presentation describes the development process behind the Boston Schoolyard Initiative: a 5-year, inner city, community-driven initiative to transform neglected and unwelcome schoolyards into active centers of school and community use. Each phase of the initiative is discussed from community organizing through design, construction, and…

Outlines the budgeting problems involved in renovating the interiors of older college buildings and claims a comprehensive space planning program supported by structured funding is essential to preserve the usable life of existing facilities. (MLF)

Presents factors to aid in deciding whether a school should remain open or closed before planning a school renovation project. (WD)

Interior parts of educational buildings deteriorate or become obsolete as programs change and facilities get reassigned. Space realignment, renewal, and replacement (SR3) is a concept for budgeting the necessary funds to prevent deterioration of physical facilities. (Author/MLF)