This paper is a preliminary examination of historical shifts in U.S. discourses of school architecture as they relate to curricular reforms and inventions on new pedagogical techniques. The paper begins by sketching the current parameters of discourses on school architecture and notes some of the key arguments of reform taken up by educators and…

This report from the New York State Comptroller's Office details problems with the State's approach to school facilities in recent years, describes why serious physical deficiencies remain unaddressed despite greatly increased spending, and makes recommendations for improvement. The report concludes that state policy for school facilities has…

This report presents detailed results from a survey and critical review of existing published literature and reports on indoor air quality (IAQ), ventilation, and IAQ- and building-related health problems in schools, particularly California schools. The findings: (1) identify the most commonly reported building-related health symtoms involving…

Asserting that school buildings under renovation and even newly built schools may have polluted indoor environments that cause health problems and hinder learning, this guide introduces special education and anti-discrimination laws designed to remove barriers to education for children with disabilities such as chronic health impairments. The…

This curriculum project explores three genres of spiritual location: the synagogue, the mosque, and the cathedral. The project examines their distinct elements and the elements that tie them together as sacred places that transcend time and place. It lists five student objectives: (1) identify the basic structural elements; (2) explain the use of…

Schoolhouse planning is becoming specialized. In a few of the larger centers of population there are architects who desire no other work except the planning of school buildings. This is bringing about in the larger cities schoolhouses that are peculiarly adapted to the educational program. They are sanitary, well lighted, and properly ventilated.…

Fire safety in schools, long recognized as a serious problem by both public officials and lay citizens, is concerned with preventing personal injury or death and property damage or destruction. The responsibility for this prevention is lodged in many hands, but school officials having jurisdiction in the matter are usually charged with developing…

A review of eight case studies of nontraditional construction methods. (Author)

Discusses the growing range of alternative solutions to provide school space in the most economical fashion as being explored by many school systems. (Author/JM)

School maintenance tips on repair costs, painting, cleaning, and carpeting. Suggests a twice yearly meeting with other plant managers and gives tips on keeping electric bills down. (DN)

There is an increase in the need for furniture and furnishings despite a slowdown in new school construction. (Author)

Discusses the merits and demerits of the three most commonly used means for comparing and contrasting expenditures for school construction -- the cost per square foot, the cost per pupil, and the cost per classroom. Describes a new test instrument based on a refinement of the cost per square foot system, and provides a theoretical test case. (EA)

Students build houses for a school system's custodians. (GB)