Offers guidelines for instructors designing computer labs to support existing writing programs, based on three main suggestions: (1) design computer-supported writing labs around writers, not around computers; (2) ground lab operations and instruction in current writing theory and pedagogy; and (3) use labs to support research on writing…

This manual draws together evolving information about how group size influences what the group does and how learning tasks may be designed and employed to accomplish desired outcomes. The manual includes ideas from research on class size and its outcomes; theories of learning and development; and validated experiences of expert educators. It…

This qualitative study examined a preschool classroom serving a child considered to be at-risk (i.e., with indications of prenatal drug exposure). For a period of one semester, the investigator collected field notes through observations and taped sessions with little direct interaction with the children. Taped discussions and interviews with the…

A self-awareness checklist is provided for teachers to assess the safety of their classroom environment. Aspects of school safety included in the checklist are: student behavior policies, teacher responsibility, facilities and equipment maintenance, and planning for emergency procedures. (FG)

From her study of traditional and open-plan British infant schools, the author shows how school buildings and playgrounds can express social and educational principles by controlling freedom of access; the destruction of defenses by open plan architecture being countered, on occasion, by creation of new defenses by teachers. (Editor/SJL)

Provides specific guidance to teachers planning activity areas and storage spaces to create an environment that supports children and how they learn. Areas of consideration include order, independence, comfort, materials, and boundaries. Hints for discovering unused space, including small and large storage projects, are provided. (SD)

In 1987, the University of Utah began changing its basic campus media format from 16mm film to half-inch videotape which resulted in changes in classroom design and in the way technology is used. Summarizes the implementation process, mistakes made, and lessons learned. Includes the Instructional Media Services department's technology classroom…

Describes results of a pilot program conducted at Wright State University in which students judged instructors on their use of computer-aided classroom presentations. A table presents student reaction to computer-aided presentations, and the article discusses detailed comments students made about screen design, use of multimedia, instructor…

Describes the development of a college English course offered as distance education for an industrial firm via communication technologies. Highlights include the use of electronic mail, fax, telephones, and postal mail; classroom design for telecourses; voice-activated video switching and management of class discussion; on-camera presentation…

Collaboration between a supervisor and a teacher of nine first and second graders with hearing loss is recounted. Discussion includes reconsideration of classroom setup, expansion of the reading program to include more guided reading, documentation of student progress, more guided writing, and more shared decision making. (DB)

Contends that keyboard synthesizers can be used effectively in the music education classroom because they are instruments more than they are technological tools. Describes an elementary music program that uses synthesizers throughout the K-6 curriculum. Includes diagrams of classrooms arranged to use computerized keyboards incorporated with other…

Describes the instructional, scheduling, and equipment needs that led to the design of "technology classrooms" at University of Maryland. Defines technology classrooms and discusses the development of design principles, procurement and installation, establishment of technology-support services, and lessons learned. (AEF)

Describes the efforts at Pace University (New York, NY) to develop and refine electronic classrooms. Topics include technology integration; needs assessment; ergonomics and environmental design issues; small-group instruction for faculty training, including cross-departmental partnerships; student feedback; and faculty feedback. (LRW)

Discusses the Technology Enhancing Achievement in Middle School (TEAMS) approach to classroom design, which incorporates interdisciplinary teams, active learning, and technology as an instructional tool. Considers the nature of instruction, development of the approach, and research examining its effects. Includes lists of software and other media…