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

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)

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…

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)

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…

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…

In addition to cost savings, modular classrooms enable school districts to respond quickly to increased enrollments. Government officials and school administrators have endorsed modular technology because of three major benefits: (1) design advantages; (2) upgrade in finishes; and (3) financing trends. (MLF)

Examines how modular educational facilities can provide a viable alternative in building construction when speed and safety are key construction issues. Explains the durability of modular structures, their adherence to building codes, and the flexibility that they provide in design and appearance. The advantages to permanent modular construction…

Describes the design and construction of relocatable modular classroom units that will be used in Florida to provide individual classrooms when and where needed, as well as to construct several complete schools. (JG)

When designing schools, one should assign space for athletic fields, arrange halls so that traffic will not disturb classrooms, separate grade levels, provide playgrounds exclusively for younger children, and provide lighting and ventilation. Unit plans should be designed so that all educational and domestic activities can be executed in the…

Describes how a Florida district accommodated an influx of students by using portable, self-contained classrooms built around a permanent core of offices: a modular campus. Discusses the search for classroom space, how to integrate the modular pieces into the setting, and outlines the savings and benefits of this process. (RJM)

Modular construction of school buildings offers speed of construction, with 100 percent contractor responsibility for the completed structures. Under negotiated terms, modular projects can be purchased outright or through long-term leasing arrangements that provide ownership at the end of the lease period. (MLF)