Design considerations for speech training systems include the types of information about speech to be used in training, whether acoustic or physiologic; and the use of models of speech production, whether partially perceptual and partially knowledge-based or explicit data-based models. A taxonomy of speech training systems is presented.…

The lessons learned about classroom design considerations from the experience of the University of California at Santa Cruz through its remediation of classroom flaws are discussed and illustrated. Topics addressed include acoustical and visual conditions, wall and ceiling angles, shapes, and materials, the floor, seating, and durability and…

Discusses the necessity for an integrated model for the design of media use in an educational context to ensure value in the design, application, and delivery of learning programs. The model is based on a media design strategy developed at the University of South Africa.(LRW)

Discusses search requests in information retrieval systems and describes the development of an algorithm for the automatic construction of query formulations in Boolean form. Topics discussed include user needs, information retrieval languages, online systems, design requirements for the algorithm, and algorithmic functioning in information…

Argues that the key to a successful move to a new facility for a library is advance planning, and suggests practical ways to make a smooth library transition to a new or newly renovated space. (LAE)

Proposes 18 key planning and design principles for quality child care facilities. The principles are based on empirical research, consulting on 40 child care centers around the United States, and visiting another 100 innovative facilities throughout northern Europe and Canada. Eleven drawings and 16 citations are included. (MLF)

Explores issues related to quality in document design. Gives an overview of the quality movement, discusses alternative definitions of quality, analyzes dominant approaches to measuring quality, presents results of a survey showing that consumers value quality in document design, offers examples showing that it is cost effective, and appends an…

Establishes a research-based set of guidelines for design of World Wide Web pages, provides an analysis of what guidelines currently exist, and compares selected parts of these guidelines with a sample of existing Web pages. A literature review and a list of the 20 Web pages used for comparison are included. Contains 200 references. (Author/LRW)

Discusses how accident prevention can be built into the swimming-pool design phase by paying attention to swimming-pool regulations, materials for basin and deck construction, pool-fixture placement, and signs and markings. A pool planning checklist is provided. (GR)

Explores locker-room design concepts that can be used to accommodate multipurpose athletic facilities and make the locker room more efficient and user friendly. Spaces are described that can be added to the typical locker room that will complement expanding facility functions. (GR)

Offers suggestions to camps for creating low- and high-ropes courses that are accessible to everyone. Describes modifications to low-ropes-course elements, such as the Nitro or Prouty's landing and a tension-traverse element; mechanical advantage systems to provide access to high-ropes-course elements; and special equipment for access or…

This column introduces Universal Design for Learning (UDL) by explaining the concept of universal design (initial design of buildings and other products to maximize accessibility for all people), universal design applied to educational materials, the central role of learning goals in universal design, and distinctions between universal design and…

Suggests that, with the increasing sophistication and complexity of Web sites, and the prospect of serious business being done through them, a review of the legal aspects of the site should be an integral part of the site design process. Reliance on content, disclaimers, and liability are discussed. (Author/LRW)

Reports on the first phase of a project to identify and implement user-based design criteria in World Wide Web pages. Focus group interviews and questionnaires were used to identify the criteria that influence use of the Web and to analyze them within the context of the users' information-gathering behavior. (Author/LRW)

Presents a vision of how the agency-based GILS (Government Information Locator Service) will be implemented to help the public locate and access information throughout the Federal Government. Topics include policy context, the user perspective, data and information, the provider perspective, design principles, functional requirements, and GILS…