Discusses some aspects of campus research facility construction that require specialized construction expertise, and which should be considered when reviewing construction proposals. (EV)

Discusses how gymnasiums, natatoriums, and lobbies can be notorious echo chambers, but that panels, baffles, banners, and blocks can help reduce unpleasant acoustics. (EV)

Asserts that the greatest benefit to the design of green sustainable schools is the opportunity to provide meaningful, ecological learning experiences for children. Offers examples of learning opportunities within the environment and a list of related resources. (EV)

Discusses Walker Elementary School In McKinney, Texas as an example of a high performance, or green, school. The school blends the physical environment with the student learning process while protecting the site. (EV)

Discusses the features of high performance design for schools, including what it is, why it should be used, its benefits, example schools, and available resources. (EV)

Describes a Colorado school district's efforts to design and construct a compact, efficient, space-saving elementary school adapted to a wooded, aesthetically pleasing site. The project's complete cost, including interior furnishings and equipment, came to $52.60 per gross square foot, or $4,189 per student. The community is inordinately proud of…

A new study has found serious physical facilities problems in a majority of the urban schools surveyed. Urban districts have emphasized basic skills and neglected physical plants, building leadership, and supplies. One solution is providing technical assistance to help local districts develop school "ownership" through a strategic planning…

The lessons learned about classroom design considerations from the experience of the University of California at Santa Cruz through its remediation of classroom flaws are discussed and illustrated. Topics addressed include acoustical and visual conditions, wall and ceiling angles, shapes, and materials, the floor, seating, and durability and…

An ongoing study by the American Institute of Architects Committee on Architecture for Education seeks nominations of schools that demonstrate the highest standard of fit between educational programs and facilities provided. (MLF)

Warnings about the deterioration of America's schoolhouses have generated only limited public reaction. State legislators, governors, federal officials, and corporate executives who reacted to "A Nation at Risk" have remained silent--perhaps because lots of money is needed to fix the problem. This article explains the effects of physical…

The Tohono O'odham built Mission San Xavier del Bac for Franciscan missionaries in the late 1700s and have protected and cared for it through changing circumstances ever since. As part of a massive restoration project, outstanding experts have been restoring the church's painted and sculpted interior and training local Tohono O'odham to be…

The requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concerning public school building accessibility are summarized. Requirements discussed include facility design and braille and raised letter signs. (DB)

In a partnership between several tool companies and vocational high schools, students in construction technology classes give new products a fair and rigorous workout at a fraction of the cost of focus groups. The process allows companies to expose their products to students who, in turn, provide critical evaluation of the tools. (JOW)

Although each school district and its bond finance campaign are unique, success at the polls depends on identifying the community's particular voting groups and developing matching strategies. Year-round public-relations programs are essential. Planners should study other districts' successful strategies, pool all available resources and talents,…

Deliberately designing alternative uses for new educational facilities has been utilized in a number of different projects in South Australia. One example is a high school designed to be converted to residential units, commercial office accommodation, and joint school and community use. (MLF)