Attempts to combine research information and practical knowledge in a set of helpful hints for those who find themselves working in open plan schools. Presents useful information to those who must cope in situations that differ dramatically from their prior experiences. For a lengthier version of this article see ED 074 611. (Editor)

AS&U interviews architect Edward Larrabee Barnes, who discusses two basic mistakes made by high schools and colleges in planning performing arts facilities. He explains that (1) they try to build flexibility into formal theaters and (2) they emphasize loads of seating, but leave little space for experimental work. (Author)

Indicates what happens to man when he suffers sensory deprivation, and underscores color's influence on behavior patterns. (Author)

The formulation of a design for a library reference desk is discussed, basic planning considerations, height, and measurements of the desk, lighting and chairs, placement of the desk, prebuilt components, and evaluation. A six-item bibliography is included. (EJS)

Reviews some of the assumptions underlying authoring guides and evaluation instruments for computer assisted instructional materials and recommends that software design and evaluation criteria be derived from a consistent learning theory base which considers the type of learning, type of learner, and instructional context. (Author/JJD)

Describes outreach services at the Calgary Public Library, Canada which are designed to meet the needs of disabled and elderly patrons. Space requirements, library equipment, staffing, and services offered are discussed. Five references are listed. (EJS)

This study examining storage space, seating space, and building modification of 36 college library buildings constructed in 1967 and 1968 reveals that space for materials is a major concern. Repossession of space used for nonlibrary functions and conversion of seating areas are suggested as solutions. Three references are cited. (EJS)

An interview with Max Bond, Professor of Architecture at Columbia University, is presented. Minority architects, social architecture, history and architecture, craftsmanship, quality in building, the design process, and architectural education are discussed. Architecture schools, it is suggested, should put more emphasis on the architect's place…

An elementary school teacher and an architect taught six third graders some principles of designing ideal classrooms. These subjects' ability to observe and design environments was shown to be significantly greater than that of students in an uninstructed control group. (Author/WB)

The traditional division of the school into discrete classrooms does not fill today's diverse student and faculty needs. The alternative might be a school divided into 40 individual carrels, 15 project rooms, 5 offices, 2 seminar rooms, and 1 multipurpose room. (Author/JM)

In a rural population, the homespace values within a particular age group provide a framework for the problem-solving paradigm in which students brainstorm ideas, select examples of the values that make sense to themselves personally, articulate and justify the strong values, and make decisions based on an internally satisfying rationale. (Author)

The Central Park Project, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, illustrates the importance of participation in the design process and the impact of school sites on children as well as on the surrounding neighborhood. (Author/MLF)

Discusses research on the impact of the physical environment of the classroom on student behavior and attitudes, and offers guidelines for designing informal classrooms. Encourages school personnel concerned with creating positive learning environments to pay more attention to the physical environment. (Author/NRB)

Provides guidelines for systemic change in education. Presents an overview of the change process. Discusses preparing for change; building a core team to lead the design effort; transforming vision into system design; shifting focus from planning to implementation; and implementation, summative evaluation, and closure. (AEF)