Schools in the hot and humid zones of the Asian region are narrow to ensure good ventilation. The purpose of this report is to show that it is possible, through appropriate design, to obtain sufficient breeze for thermal comfort in buildings as wide as 15 meters. Some of the conclusions of a study of the subject are summarized. The summary is…

This paper describes the physiological "eye noise" effect of line contrast in maps and considers the effect of line contrast on the direct picture of terrain surface as produced by shaded relief. An attempt is made to describe map reading in its two major steps: 1) the enrichment of the brain image resulting from scanning the map sheet,…

This paper discusses the working principles that have grown out of the experiences of an architect and a psychologist working together as a planning team. According to the author, the true problem in planning and design is the prediction of behavior. Therefore, although the basic problems should be handled by the designer, a psychologist can…

Two new designs for microfilm viewers are described. Both viewers are front projection viewers utilizing matte surface display screens. One viewer with an adjustable horizontal screen has a normal magnification rate and is mounted on a desk top. The other viewer has a high (4x) magnification rate in a mini-theater configuration with remote…

This discussion of learning carrels for active, individualized learning focuses on three major considerations: (1) student activities--what the student does; (2) information display--what the student sees and hears; (3) carrel structure--what features are incorporated for what purposes. (Author)

A generalized conceptual dynamic model of man-machine interactions with its symbolic description is proposed. The model is intended to represent the man-machine interactive behaviors of interactive adaptive logic systems. (Author)

Barrier-free design represents an examination of human performance within the physical environment. (Author)

Provides guidelines to follow in drawing up a contract with a school architect. Once the architect has been selected, a clear definition of mutual expectations and schedules must be outlined and documented in the contract. (TE)

Describes the fundamentals of Japanese braille and outlines the spacing rules now in general use. Points out the relevance of Japanese braille for the computer treatment of the Japanese language. (FL)

Special learning environments for severely handicapped students can seldom be justified. Specially designed and often extravagantly costly physical space, which does not provide adequate opportunity for the generalization of functional skills to unmodified settings, should be viewed skeptically. The use of natural environments, without expensive…

A response to an article (EC 160 670) questioning the justification of special learning environments for severely handicapped persons comments on the importance of autonomy and choice--two features lacking in the traditional institutional environment. (CL)

This standards publication provides acoustical performance criteria, design requirements, and design guidelines for new school classrooms and other learning spaces. The standards may be applied when practicable to the major renovation of existing classrooms. These criteria, requirements, and guidelines are keyed to the acoustical qualities needed…

This planning guide focuses on the fundamental requirements for planning and designing school music suites. The guide provides brief explanations of critical factors affecting music suites so that music directors and other stakeholders can more quickly and clearly communicate music area fundamentals to architects and administrators. Topics cover…

Some tips for humanizing school offices. (JF)

An investigation of the effect that the educational facility (the environment) has on social and emotional learning from the viewpoints of educational planning, nonverbal communication, and educational psychology. (Author/MF)