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)

A forthright discussion of recent British universities, with an important message for American campuses. (Author)

The author suggests that the next major advance in educational technology is likely to come with the development of tactile communication devices and multi-sensory programmed environments." Appended are eleven references. (Author/AA)

Modern packaging problems and their ecological impact. (MU)

Describes how planned storage and organization of industrial arts tools and materials help solve a teaching problem. (GR)

Three school architects create a series of new and different design concepts for physical education activities. (MF)

Investigated the clothing preferences and problems of older women, using personal interviews. Presents results of preferred styles in detail. Discusses implications of the research for gerontologists in higher education and for the American clothing industry. (RC)