Facility specifications for visual and performing arts areas are provided to guide and assist school officials, staff members, architects, and engineers plan suitable facilities for the arts in schools. The visual arts areas covered are studios, photographic laboratories, and galleries. Performing arts areas discussed are music facilities, drama…

The development of a muralmaking project during a three-week summer institute in open education in Manhattan is described. Photographs and videotape provide a record to share with teachers and schools who wish to use muralmaking as a curriculum element. Preparation is recounted; participants' logs and community reactions are quoted. (AJ)

Presents a review of the literature dealing with the theory of the naming of colors. A comparison is made between the names of colors in Italian and Dutch, discussing the differences between languages in terms of the influence of the sociocultural context. (61 references) (CFM)

Twenty children with autism were compared to children with Down syndrome (n=19) and typical peers (n=20) in visual orientation to two social and two nonsocial stimuli and in ability to share attention. Children with autism frequently failed to orient to all stimuli, particularly social stimuli, and exhibited attention deficits. (Author/CR)

The experience of an urban waterfront setting can enhance sociocultural education for children, facilitate development of mental and physiological skills, and can function as a playground. The designs of waterfront environments should therefore consider children's needs and enhance both the interaction of children with their environment and…

Visual modes of communication are described in this book, which also attempts to show some of the layers of meaning implicit in visual forms and symbols and something of what these can tell about people in general and their subconscious striving for self-identification. It is composed of a series of selected images--photographs, cartoons,…

As there is uncertainty surrounding black light safety, caution should be exercised in using it as a vision training tool with visually handicapped students--particularly aphakic and albino students, young students, and those taking photosensitizing drugs. The use of ultraviolet-blocking filters or lenses is recommended during black light…

Describes factors to be considered in the design of ergonomically correct workstations for online searchers. Topics discussed include visual factors, including lighting; acoustical factors; radiation and visual display terminals (VDTs); screen image characteristics; static electricity; hardware and equipment; workstation configuration; chairs;…

Suggests group relamping in educational facilities as a more efficient method than spot replacement of failed lamps. It can reduce operating costs, improve lighting quality, and help with federal and state regulations compliance. The implementation of group relamping is discussed in terms of planning, energy savings, and environmental issues. (RE)

Audio-based virtual environments have been increasingly used to foster cognitive and learning skills. A number of studies have also highlighted that the use of technology can help learners to develop effective skills such as motivation and self-esteem. This study presents the design and usability of 3D interactive environments for children with…

In 2002, the National Center for Educational Statistics reported that 99% of public schools had Internet access and 86% of those schools had a web site or web page (Kleiner & Lewis, 2003). This study examined accessibility issues on elementary school homepages. Using a random sample of elementary school web sites, the researchers documented…

Students are, increasingly, digital content producers, and participate extensively in evolving online social networks. The emergence of the former represents subtle changes in students' experience of images, audience, copyright, ownership of learning, and technology. Experiencing the latter places students in an awkward position in terms of…

Research findings indicate that students are affected positively or adversely by the visual, acoustical, and thermal characteristics of the classroom environment. During the 1986-87 school year, 280 fourth- and sixth-grade students housed in two separate school facilities--the oldest and the newest in a rural Tennessee county school district--were…

Characteristics of a good institutional child care environment are briefly described. Discussion contrasts institutional and home environments. Topics addressed include safety, cleanliness, order, size and age appropriateness of equipment, and softness of surfaces. Also included are suggestions for using color schemes that create a sense of unity,…

A MORE STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT COULD BE PROVIDED IN MANY IOWA SCHOOLS IF EACH SCHOOL'S ART DEPARTMENT WOULD TAKE THE INITIATIVE AND PROVIDE THE NECESSARY LEADERSHIP FOR INTERNAL FACELIFTING PROJECTS. HOWEVER, IN SMALL RURAL SCHOOLS, WHERE SPECIAL ART TEACHERS ARE NOT AVAILABLE, THE CLASSROOM TEACHERS MUST FILL THIS VOID BY BEING CREATIVE AND…