Historically, classrooms have utilized stationary furniture, facing front toward a centralized instructor position, and limiting student-to-student interactions. Such classrooms often stem from design processes that tend to focus on building codes and feedback from investors, architects, and planners, which leaves little input from instructors and…

Architects and designers have a responsibility to provide an inclusive built environment. However, for those with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the built environment can be a frightening and confusing place, difficult to negotiate and tolerate. The challenge of integrating more fully into society is denied by an alienating built…

Notes environmental factors affecting adult learning situations: territoriality, seating arrangements, sightlines, and equipment. A checklist for conducting a space audit includes features inside and outside the classroom. (SK)

The development of learning environments especially for adults has been neglected and research in planning such environments is fragmented and minimal. There is general agreement that facilities for adults should have an aura of adulthood to contribute to an adult's feeling of ease, confidence, and capability; that they should be flexible in room…

The author describes physical conditions in the classroom--light, sound, color and touch, and space--that the educator can alter to improve human comfort and thus make the classroom a more pleasurable, effective place for both teacher and student. (Editor)

Applies learning theory and ergonomic principles to the design of effective learning environments for library instruction. Discusses features of electronic classroom ergonomics, including the ergonomics of physical space, environmental factors, and workstations; and includes classroom layouts. (Author/LRW)

A presentation of the Hope School's physical plant and program specifications is introduced with a listing of the specifications committee, a history of the school, the needs of the children served, and a philosophy of teaching mentally handicapped children. Areas discussed are school-wide specifications, the administrative complex, the diagnostic…

Discusses the importance of planning lighting in childcare centers. Ideas for organizing lighting in efficient and developmentally appropriate ways are offered. Suggestions are made for provisions that will ensure children's gradual transition from bright to dimly-lit rooms. Guidelines for assessing light quality in a facility and the degree to…

Serious consideration is given to the problems of space layout and design of facilities for cooperative vocational education. The accompanying floor plan has most of the essential needs considered. Cooperative vocational curricular patterned programs should be able to adjust or revise to meet needs of unique offerings. The space needs for all…

Industrial arts is to suffer much change in the immediate future if it is to survive. In teaching modern American industry, the most effective methods and equipment must be used. Duplication of facilities should be minimized and larger unit facilities should be geared to team teaching. Machines and equipment should be designed to move freely from…