Amid controversy, a former Paris slaughterhouse is being converted into one of the world's largest science museums. The museum will be organized into four major sectors corresponding to different levels at which science and technology touch human lives: exploring, using/producing, living/inhabitating, and communications. The controversy related to…

This paper discusses the present enrollment decline in public schools and its implications for students, teachers, administrators, curriculum, community, and especially school facilities. One problem of declining enrollment is that the average age and years of experience of staff personnel has tended to rise, creating a predominantly white,…

The 24,000 square foot Alaska State Museum is experiencing a space crisis which hinders its ability to effectively meet present demands. The museum's collection has more than tripled from 5,600 objects 17 years ago to 23,000 objects today. Available storage and exhibition space is filled and only 10% of the collection is on exhibit. The reason for…

George Mason University's new Patriot Center arena is built and owned by the university but managed and in part designed by operators of a local sports and entertainment complex. This allows the university to have the arena's benefits without having to learn the business of operating it. (MSE)

This article reports highlights of a four-year study, by the Center for Policy Research, of the planning and implementation of six innovative public schools. Most people who planned new school programs vastly underestimated the complexity of the enterprise. Dilemmas are outlined and illustrated. (Author/KC)

Guidelines for the use of school physical education facilities by nonschool groups are summarized. A written district policy, a facility use agreement form, proof of insurance coverage, a fee schedule, and clear policies on prohibited activities are recommended. Selected regulations for community sports are cited. (MJL)

This report presents findings, conclusions, and recommendations from a study of capital planning space standards and guidelines for classrooms, academic offices, research laboratories, and teaching laboratories in California. The report addresses the second and third of the study's three key objectives which were accomplished through three…

The development of the Grenoble-Meylan (France) science park is described, highlighting the process by which the need for careful and coordinated planning was needed. (Author/MSE)

This staff report details fiscal year 1998 capital improvement budget recommendations of the Illinois State Board of Higher Education. The report recommends funding for 39 higher education capital facility projects at a total cost of $284.5 million, including $40 million for capital renewal projects; $25 million for technology infrastructure in…

Contending that the physical plants of colleges and universities are deteriorating and inadequately fit existing institutional programs, this report diagnoses causes underlying this neglect and recommends strategies for upgrading campus care and management. Pointed out as fundamental problems are: lack of integration of physical plant concerns…