A group of 20 students studied chemistry with the same lecturer in three different physical environments: (1) computers on lab benches; (2) computers around the walls; and (3) computers in cluster groups of four. Students preferred the cluster groups, suggesting that physical features of learning environments should be considered in learning with…

Provides a rationale for applying holistic systems thinking to sustainable development Suggests student activities for four topics: (1) exploration of external organizational environment; (2) inner-directed exploration of the natural world; (3) exploration of the individual's world; and (4) personal impact on the larger system. (Contains 29…

A survey of 999 college students explored the relationship between physical environment, regional preference, and home environment as they relate to recreational choices. The questionnaire covered several aspects of recreational travel, environmental preference, and activity patterns. (IAH)

Day care directors who wish to create a good first impression for parents may wish to consider the appearance of the exterior of their building, the reception area, general health and safety of the center, personnel, center vans, and telephone etiquette. (RJC)

Summarizes the history of the study of global warming and includes a discussion of the role of gases, like carbon dioxide, methane, and chlorofluorocarbon (CFC). Discusses modern research on the global warming, including computer modelling and the super-greenhouse effect. (YP)

Evidence is presented negating the theory that gravitoinertial force is perceived. It is suggested that spatial orientation is based on information derived from patterns of motion of the organism, the surface of support, and compensatory actions of the organism. Recommendations for further research are outlined. (SLD)

This paper examines policy underscoring the importance of choice and self-determination in physical environments of children with disabilities; reviews research in this area; and discusses four laws which address opportunities for choice and self-determination, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, Individuals with Disabilities Education…

Focuses on expanding childhood programs to accommodate deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing children: in-service training; the addition of staff who can communicate with the deaf and hard-of-hearing children; and with physical changes. Modifications to aspects of the environment are discussed. (LZ)

Lists 27 suggestions for making cost-effective decisions when buying personal computers. Topics covered include physical comfort; modem speed; color graphics; institutional discounts; direct-order firms; brand names; replacing versus upgrading; expanding hard disk capacity; printers; software; wants versus needs; and RLIN (Research Libraries…

Discusses results of a Green Index, published by the Institute for Southern Studies, that ranks the 50 states on the basis of 256 environmental indicators. Explores how and why the deep South states are all at the bottom of the list. A vignette provides a comparison between state hazardous waste generation and spending on waste management. (MCO)

A study of what people valued in an old school in Virginia and what they wanted in a new one can be summarized as a facility that encourages interaction among people. Specific planning recommendations include using the home as model for designing schools, creating areas for congregating, and designing the school to be the center of the community.…

Describes online resources that address environmental issues. Highlights include information sources on the Internet; electronic bulletin boards, including those from departments of the federal government; online databases; databases on diskette; CD-ROMs from government and commercial suppliers; and nonelectronic sources of information. (LRW)

Discusses the sacred bond between the cedar and the Skokomish people and tribal efforts to protect the cedar through treaties and court litigation. Describes how disappearance of the cedar is adversely affecting traditional education practices and the survival of traditional culture and ceremonies. (SV)

In their book entitled Scientific Knowledge, Barry Barnes, David Bloor, and John Henry repudiate the notion that physical environment plays no role in the creation of scientific knowledge, thereby removing a major bone of contention between scientists and practitioners of the sociology of scientific knowledge. A physicist discusses ways in which…

Teachers judged four types of outdoor settings for potential benefits and barriers to their use in environmental education. Factor analysis or responses showed six benefit and barrier factors: (1) appropriateness of teaching setting; (2) teacher confidence; (3) worries; (4) need for training; (5) hazards; and (6) difficulty of teaching…