Examines how improving classroom acoustics can maximize student productivity at a minimal cost. Discusses the effects on students and teachers of a poor acoustic environment and presents some simple solutions for overcoming poor classroom acoustics. Examines efforts to create national standards for classroom background noise and reverberation as…

Presents three examples of large-scale school construction and renovation projects in France where a link has been established between school design and successful teaching and learning. Further discussed are the conclusions that can be drawn from these projects in preparatory work prior to building. (GR)

DePaul University's downtown Chicago campus is geared toward professional students. A search for space led to the acquisition of a city-owned landmark 1912 department store. By purchasing from the city, DePaul gained financial advantages. The city benefitted since it was able to make money from a building it was about to demolish. An essentially…

Before undertaking a school construction or renovation project, administrators should plan carefully, collect adequate data, involve the school board, form a building committee, understand legalities, select the right architect, consult with technology director, monitor the construction site, enjoy short-lived trouble-free times; and document…

Discusses the costs and benefits of various construction delivery methods for higher education facility projects, including the traditional lump sum general contracting approach (also known as design/bid/build); design-build; and, in the case of private institutions, guaranteed maximum pricing offered by those firms willing to perform construction…

Provides estimates on school construction completed in 2001, construction projected to be completed in 2002, and projects identified as starting in 2002. Several data tables present profiles of what is included in buildings, expenditures by building type, and building activity by region. (EV)

Outlines a longitudinal study of a Midwest urban high school to investigate the design of smaller learning communities within large school buildings. Explores the role of the physical environment in forming small learning communities. Examines how the school's physical environment contributes to sociability. Discusses the role that youth…

Discusses the problem of low acoustical performance in many of today's K-12 classrooms and its impact on student learning. The following three primary types of classroom noise and their control are explored: reverberation; climate control system noise; and noise from outside the classroom. (GR)

Discusses how energy service companies (ESCO) can help schools upgrade their indoor air quality and make them environmentally sound. How ESCO's help in arranging funding for indoor environmental improvements through energy performance contracts is discussed. Tips on energy-efficiency measures for improving indoor environmental quality are…

Discusses the importance of paying attention to facility requirements when selecting windows during a school building retrofit. Facility requirements to consider include security needs, lighting, energy conservation, and ease the cost of maintenance. (GR)

Describes the expansion process and design of the St. Alcuin Montessori School of Dallas (Texas) which preserved the Montessori educational philosophy while adding a civic scale to the enlarged campus and a new centrally located performing arts center. Interbuilding access walkways that conform to the surrounding landscape while adding protection…

Describes how the Hammond School District (Indiana) solved the problem of fitting the correct amount of space needed for students, teachers, and technology. Examines the district's solutions for furniture needs through the use of full-scale mockups of classroom arrangements; and the wiring, power needs, and lighting. (GR)

Discusses four factors in designing a school music room that satisfies student, teacher, and school needs. Explores acoustics in terms of cubic volume, room shape, sound isolation, acoustical treatment, and mechanical systems. Also examines the floorplan for space, traffic control, and access to related areas. Concluding comments address equipment…

Presents descriptions and photographs of award winning education facility renovation and modernization projects for the 2001 American School and University Architectural Portfolio Contest. Included are each project's vital statistics, the architectural firm involved, and a list of designers. (GR)

Changes in federal policy affecting rural development in economically distressed areas in 2001 include new markets initiatives, establishment of the (Mississippi River) Delta Regional Authority, and increased infrastructure funding. Infrastructure priorities include highway construction, airport improvements, public works grants, rural…