Findings of some of the more recent research on the impact of color and lighting on the teaching-learning process. (Author/MLF)

The advantages and disadvantages of five alternative ways of using surplus space available to school systems. (Author)

Postoccupancy evaluation is a careful, systematic, and reliable process intended to ensure that findings can be applied to future buildings. Some of the important issues about postoccupancy evaluation are explored using questions that are often asked about this new component in the building delivery system. (MLF)

Project description, design philosophy, and sketches of site and floor plans are provided for six educational facilities presently, or soon to be, under construction in the states of California, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Texas, and Oklahoma. (MLF

Examines the six major categories of facility characteristics that affect learning and addresses how they pertain to special education programs and services. (MLF)

Landscaping can make the school environment more attractive, thus encouraging students' intellectual, emotional, and physical development. Guidelines are offered for comprehensive site planning, tree and plant selection, and grounds maintenance. (MLF)

An ongoing study by the American Institute of Architects Committee on Architecture for Education seeks nominations of schools that demonstrate the highest standard of fit between educational programs and facilities provided. (MLF)

A number of studies show that school building noise interferes with the efficiency of students and teachers, lessens attention, and makes concentration on tasks more difficult. Effective noise control measures should be taken at all phases of school building design and construction. (MLF)

The Building Energy Data Group at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, California, compiles measured energy data on retrofitted buildings and new buildings designed to be energy-efficient. Currently in the database are data from 89 elementary schools, 31 secondary schools, and 14 colleges. (MLF)

Having successfully used computer control in the solar-heated and cooled Terraset School, the Fairfax County, VA, Public Schools are now computerizing all their facilities. This article discusses the configuration and use of a countywide control system, reasons for the project's success, and problems of facility automation. (MCG)

In school design evaluation, the facility meets the following criteria: (1) is an integral part of the community; (2) creates a behavioral setting for learning; (3) fosters communication; (4) enhances the opportunity for teachers to function as professionals; (5) accommodates students' learning styles; and (6) is adaptable to the user's needs.…

Provides a process model for developing educational specifications--precise statements of activities, curriculum, and functions that a proposed school building will house--and highlights specific requirements and features. A graph and a relationship matrix illustrate the process. Includes 12 references. (MLF)

Presents the history, ideal level of utilization, and current reality of six educational facility concepts: openness, space relationships, quantity, quality, suitability, and flexibility. (MLF)

The School Zone Institute has developed a process used to bring together all elements that should be considered in designing educational facilities. Appended are 44 references. (MLF)

Examines the energy crisis and its effect on school operation, facilities planning, and student transportation. Specific recommendations are made regarding ways in which the school plant and the school transportation program can conserve fuel. (DN)