The purpose of this study was to determine the design features of the physical learning environment that support and enhance collaborative, project-based learning at the community college level, and to gain an understanding of the rationale for selection of the features. The characteristics of the physical environment investigated in the study…

The case studies in this booklet highlight how five communities, in big cities and small towns, overcame the obstacles inherent in creating good new schools in existing neighborhoods. These studies illustrate the creativity that people across the United States have brought to the task of creating new schools in older neighborhoods. There is…

This document is a description of a prototype Library/Student Center designed to serve approximately 10,000 students at a comprehensive campus. Prepared by the firm Paulien & Associates, Inc., of Denver, Colorado, this prototype will serve a design basis for facilities at all Pima Community College (PCC) campuses. The prototype will not be…

Outline of the development of a university library serving approximately 5,232 faculty, staff, and students covers goals and projections, library facilities and space utilization, personnel requirements, administration changes, collection development, materials budgets, library services, adoption of online systems, and library organization…

School administrators can make changes in schools that will help students learn more effectively. Among these changes are improvements in landscaping, teaching spaces, and storage space. In addition, provisions for a community lounge and spaces for volunteers and the custodial crew will increase the quality of the school environment. (MLF)

In the 1980s a new emphasis in facilities planning seems to be emerging: fiscal conservatism and retrenchment in higher education. The new context of facilities planning, the parameters of the problem, and innovative efforts by a Texas state agency are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Describes an evaluation model which employs available data for curriculum evaluation; discusses three modes for its use; and reports on tests of the model. Its components are: enrollment characteristics, cost analysis, instructional conditions, student success, and utilization of instructional space. Tables illustrate the model. (MB)

In 1993-94, Ohio implemented an interdistrict open-enrollment policy, allowing student transfers only to adjacent districts. Districts can be open or closed, but cannot prevent transfers. A 1994 survey found that open districts were small, rural, racially homogeneous districts with declining enrollment. Closed districts were suburban, with…

Addresses the necessity of incorporating new computer technologies into school library resource centers and notes some administrative challenges. An extensive checklist is provided for assessing equipment and furniture needs, physical facilities, and rewiring needs. A glossary of 20 terms and 11 additional resources is included. (AEF)

Provides a blueprint of details to consider and actions to undertake when planning and moving a library. It examines space needs, spatial design elements, requirements for reader stations, collections, and new technology; provides suggestions for master planning and siting; and gives tips on how to successfully move into a new facility. (Contains…

Discusses the importance of planning lighting in childcare centers. Ideas for organizing lighting in efficient and developmentally appropriate ways are offered. Suggestions are made for provisions that will ensure children's gradual transition from bright to dimly-lit rooms. Guidelines for assessing light quality in a facility and the degree to…

A Utah school district, faced with a legislative freeze on new-school construction, has implemented an aggressive and diverse program to accommodate increasing enrollment. The strategy relies on alternative scheduling, with year-round schools and an eight-period modified schedule; alternative staffing patterns; and use of capital funds for…

A Northern Arapaho architect discusses his design process, which uses American Indian cultures, symbols, and attitudes as creative inspiration; his use of space and design elements from aboriginal housing styles; and his experiences with HUD and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Housing Improvement Program. (SV)

Discusses the changes in today's schools resulting from the growth of information technology and community needs. Examines how some school districts are responding to the technological retrofit issue; looks at the challenges they face in placing technology in the classroom, allocating space, and building flexibility into the school. Highlighted…

Costs that may increase the original school construction estimates include school-design inefficiency, architect fees, and costs for land, site development, technology, demolition, consultants, and security. A quality-review team can plan to avoid hidden costs and ensure that the new facility will meet instructional needs at the least possible…