Describes a U-shaped classroom design developed to provide a learning environment which would optimized more fully student comprehension and retention through emphasis on multisensory learning. (CMV)

Research shows that for effective learning to occur, children must be actively involved. They need space to work with a wide variety of materials, share ideas, and present their findings. Architects are working to produce designs featuring large common areas or large complexes devoted to specific interests. Working in an open environment…

Presents classroom setup and display ideas that can help elementary teachers create an effective learning environment. Ideas include signposts for instructions; a classroom duties chart; teacher helper hats; and bulletin boards that feature famous authors, graphs, daily news, student work, and creative writing. (SM)

Discusses the importance of block play--including its contributions to perceptual, fine motor, and cognitive development--and components of a good preschool block play area. Recommends unit blocks complemented by stacking blocks, toys, beads, cubes, and Brio wooden toys. Makes recommendations for space, size, locations and connections to other…

Eight elementary school teachers describe how they organized their classrooms to make unique, effective learning environments. There are ideas for creating a reading garden, shared spaces, more work space, more storage space, desktop folders, confined block areas, magnetic display holders, and effective room layouts. (SM)

Discusses ways to create a classroom environment that encourages students to test the power of their language through reading and writing experiences. Describes a writing lesson in a writer-centered classroom, what a writing classroom looks like, and what teachers should do first in terms of the physical setup of the classroom. (SR)

Nine elementary teachers explain how they design their classrooms to match and support their instructional styles. The teachers focus on whole language programs, student portfolios, science activity set-ups, technology transformation, learning center strategies, and space utilization. (SM)

Explores key design concepts that support interdisciplinary and collaborative learning in college science classrooms. How each of these concepts were applied at the Lied Science, Mathematics, and Computer Facility at Doane College (Nebraska) is highlighted. (GR)

Presents tips to help teachers best use their preparation time before school opens. Suggestions include making multiple student lists; designing classroom desk arrangements; reviewing cumulative records; adding desktop names and numbers; checking texts; posting correctable schedules; decorating only one bulletin board; creating box-trays for…

Examines how the introduction of new technology has spawned the emergence of new types of furniture, furnishings, and classroom design to support high school science instruction. The challenges imposed by the Americans with Disabilities Act on school science labs are highlighted. (GR)

Explains how schools can take advantage of energy-saving opportunities to better meet the needs of the future without increasing energy demands. Energy-savings ideas as components of a complete energy management control system are highlighted as are tips on saving energy through equipment and classroom design selection, and energy conservation…

In this article, the author talks about art in the classroom. He urges teachers to envision their classroom as a balance between inspiration and meditation, clutter and clarity, excitement and introspection. Remember that each student has a unique threshold for stimulation--what inspires one student to productive creativity may well trigger the…

A number of university campuses have undertaken the development of digital classrooms that enable presentation of digital media and digital lecture recording. While educators from across disciplines are interested in using the facilities these classroom spaces provide, deploying the infrastructure for a digital classroom is difficult at best, even…

The authors present results from an experiment that tested the effect of seat location on student performance and attitudes in an undergraduate biology class. The seat assignments were randomly assigned on the first day of class. The authors did not find that students sitting in the front did any better than students sitting in the back. (Contains…

Education is often understood as the sole responsibility of parents and teachers. Reggio Emilia identifies a 3rd teacher between child, teacher, and parent: the environment. In its attention to how space can be thoughtfully arranged, Reggio Emilia has reconceptualized space as a key source of educational provocation and insight. In what ways does…