This guide contains recommendations for designing high performance, energy efficient schools located in hot and dry climates. A high performance checklist for designers is included along with several case studies of projects that successfully demonstrated high performance design solutions for hot and dry climates. The guide's 10 sections…

This document presents methods for determining minimum school space requirements for Arizona public school classrooms; libraries and media centers; cafeterias; auditoriums and other multiuse space; science, art, vocational education, and physical education space; and non-educational areas. The space requirements are based on the following…

This publication about pre-school nursery design illustrates major issues and ideas about these spaces and provides comprehensive guidance for the planners and designers of such spaces. The author presents examples of historical and contemporary kindergartens that demonstrate practical ways that educational theory can be incorporated into new…

This study involved an in-depth floor space analysis of Cardozo Senior High School, and a review of design plans for a modernized McKinley Tech High School (both in Washington, DC), in order to prompt District of Columbia public schools to develop accurate measurements of useable (i.e., net) floor space, thereby allowing design standards flexible…

Surveys were returned from 40 of 235 climbing gyms nationwide in an effort to identify or verify issues concerning the design, construction, and use of artificial climbing walls. The survey was complemented by discussions with wall manufacturers, architects, engineers, climbing gym owners, wall managers and staff, competition organizers, and…

Ideally, playgrounds should encourage development of gross and fine motor skills and present a stimulating play environment that provides children with manageable challenges. In order to provide these challenges, a balance must be found between risk and safety. Over the last few years there has been an increased interest in the use of soft…

This publication offers aid for North Carolina schools in planning new and renovated facilities to accommodate technology. It is a supplement to the North Carolina Public School Facilities Guidelines and should be used in conjunction with the STS-1000 Telecommunications Wiring Guidelines and the North Carolina School Technology Plan and other…

This design guide offers guidance to science educators, architects, and others concerned with the provision of science accommodations in Ontario, Canada, either through new construction or the adaptation of existing buildings. The publication is not a blueprint for facilities nor an attempt to standardize all science programs and facilities; it is…

This paper examines the emerging trend of multipurpose class spaces, including educational trends influencing multipurpose classroom use, and key issues when using these spaces. Issues discussed include room location, technology integration, food services, acoustics, lighting, outdoor space, capacity, and storage. Design principles emphasized…

This paper discusses the components of key spaces found within elementary and secondary school science facilities, and highlights the common design features that facilitate quality science instruction in these areas. Three educational trends that have shaped today's school science education are also examined. Common design features highlighted…

Describes a model courtroom in which law school students at the University of the Pacific in Sacramento, California, can conduct practice trials. The courtroom design is circular and new features include an extensive security system, videotaping equipment, a press room, a technicians room, and an isolation room. (Author/DN)

Describes how one crowded elementary school was able to double its size and modernize its facility at low cost. (Author/DN)

A supermarket of ideas on merchandising curriculum materials to students. Suggestions, too, for creating exciting classroom environment inexpensively. (Author/JN)

Preplanning buildings for easy upkeep may cost more not but cut custodial costs later. (Author/JN)