Many 16-year-olds in England seek alternatives to traditional formal higher education, thus requiring colleges to offer alternative means of attracting this group to continue their education in an educational atmosphere appropriate to their needs. This publication examines the problem of providing for non-advanced further education (NAFE) in the…

Reviews present and potential uses of computers in schools, explains how computers can be used in facility planning, and advises planners to provide telephone lines and electric power in ample quantity everywhere in buildings. (MLF)

Closing small schools because of declining enrollment could be avoided by implementing a new organizational structure in which a cluster of small schools would function under one administrative director. Excess space could be shared with the community. (MLF)

A statewide survey was made of New Jersey public school facilities. Discussed are some of the benefits of the survey, performance criteria, the process of the survey, and the resulting kinds of printed information available. (Author/MLF)

When the voters of Carlsbad, in southeast New Mexico, passed a $14 million bond referendum in 1992, the school board decided to use a portion of the money to consolidate the kindergarten, Head Start, and developmentally delayed preschooler programs into one building. Colors and symbols give young children visual reminders. Four architects offer…

Technology available to schools includes a broad spectrum of voice, data and video equipment. Planners need to consider the following subsystems individually and collectively: (1) technology-based products; (2) communications and power distribution to support the equipment; and (3) ergonomics, lighting, acoustics, environmental controls, and…

In selecting an overall color scheme for a facility, start with the largest areas first. The carpeting followed by the walls, then furniture and other accessories. Because color can affect people emotionally and behaviorally, consideration should be given to who will be using the space. (MLF)

Discusses why schools and universities must be diligent as they build new facilities to make sure construction sites are not contaminated with toxic chemicals and other hazardous materials. Addresses why schools often inadvertently choose these sites, the drive for national regulation, lessons from a situation in Los Angeles, tips for acquiring…

Explores the impact of grade configuration decisions on the number and size of elementary, middle, and high schools needed. Discusses various trends regarding placement of sixth grade, ninth grade, and preschool classes and the resurgence of K-8 and K-12 models. (EV)

Proposes structured workshops as the method to integrate green planning seamlessly into campus building planning. Explains that green rating systems, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), offer specific ways to gauge the environmental effectiveness of green measures. (EV)

Presents several strategies for successful green building on campus: develop a set of clear environmental performance goals (buildings as pedagogical tools, climate-neutral operations, maximized human performance), use Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) as a gauge of performance, and use the project to reform the campus building…

This article outlines the activities and recommendations of California's sustainable building task force, discusses sustainable building activities in California's higher education systems, and highlights key issues that California is grappling with in its implementation of sustainable building practices. (EV)

The most difficult task for campus planners is making site selection recommendations based on qualitative facts that cannot be compared to each other. Any means of alternative site evaluation should include a flexible system of comparing such far-ranging criteria as visual impact, access to parking, and site development cost. (MLW)

In school design evaluation, the facility meets the following criteria: (1) is an integral part of the community; (2) creates a behavioral setting for learning; (3) fosters communication; (4) enhances the opportunity for teachers to function as professionals; (5) accommodates students' learning styles; and (6) is adaptable to the user's needs.…

One way to make the most of existing facilities and limited resources is an assessment of program usage in addition to facilities usage. Cites a comprehensive facility and programming inventory for the Boston Public Schools that produced very detailed, high quality data for facilities and programs. (MLF)