One of the defining elements of a university is its architecture. Whether a school has ivy-covered brick buildings or modern steel and glass structures, the character of its campus may be largely shaped by its buildings and the atmosphere they create. It is essential for a university to provide sufficient housing to meet its needs, but it is also…

Explains a mathematical formula used for locating public sites close to the expected geographic center of an area where population (or population density) and distance are the two major suitable variables. Application of the site selection methodology is proposed for schools, libraries, parks, and other public sites. (MLF)

This presentation describes the development of an Icelandic school for students in grades 1-10. The school is based on the needs of students, their families, their communities, and their country. The process for making decisions about the new schools is called "design down," which refers to starting with the biggest issues and moving…

This article is part of a series that has offered insight on planning a facilities project, hiring professionals, delivery system options and owner's responsibilities. In this article, the author focuses on some of the planning and design concepts one may be asked to consider in providing direction to his design and construction team. These…

The APPA (Association of Higher Education Facilities Officers) Thought Leaders Series turned five years old this year--a significant event in a momentous time for higher education. Participants in the 2010 symposium looked back at both the achievements and the missteps of higher education over the last half-decade, a period that posed many…

Students may select a particular college or university for its location, tuition costs, selection of majors, reputation, and numerous other reasons. Students who are deaf or hard of hearing consider the same reasons as their hearing peers, but are likely to give major consideration also to the type and quality of support services available to…

The rapid growth in the number of post-secondary institutions in Saudi Arabia over the last few years necessitated the creation of a government agency for accreditation and quality assurance. The National Commission for Academic Accreditation and Assessment was established in 2004 for this purpose. Between 2005 and 2008, it developed a new…

Information required for the planning and design of outdoor sports facilities is provided in the format of an outline text and design criteria placed opposite an accompanying page of definitive drawings. Scope of the manual covers those outdoor sports and games most commonly played for competition and/or recreation by military and civilian…

Discusses methods of utilizing existing buildings to provide library services, including complete renovation of a building structure internally while retaining walls and roof, and temporary use of buildings which serve another purpose. Examples of building conversion methods are included. (Author/MBR)

Discusses a "package deal" library--a prefabricated building including interior furnishing--in terms of costs, fitness for purpose, and interior design, i.e., shelving, flooring, heating, lighting, and humidity. Advantages and disadvantages of the package library are also considered. (Author/MBR)

Discusses the planning of educational facilities to accomodate technological change. (PF)

The looming energy crunch forecasts an uncertain future for state park activities. (Editor)

Describes the textbook rental system at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. (PG)

Describes the new Rich Electronic Computer Center at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. (PG)