The study of "Functional Planning of Elementary School Buildings" is a cooperative piece of work carried to completion by the Office of Education with very generous assistance from the National Advisory Council on School Building Problems. The Office is under deep obligation to the National Advisory Council for the time and thought which the…

As the twenty-first century begins, America faces a daunting challenge: The "baby boom echo" is ready for school. The children of World War Two's baby boomers, millions of youngsters are crowding into schools across the nation. Thousands of new schools will be needed to accommodate them. This demand for educational facilities is…

The school yard has been one of the least utilized of our educational resources. Surfaced with a view to his convenience and used mostly in accordance with his desires, it has practically belonged to the janitor. In the past 10 years the great play movement has burst upon us and has brought with it an illumination as to the educational value of…

Teachers conducting more open programs and/or teaching in architecturally open schools had significantly more positive attitudes towards education, teaching, pupils, and educational innovation than did teachers conducting less open programs and/or teaching in architecturally closed or partially closed schools. This apparently reflects more…

Building a pond in a schoolyard is a rewarding way to help boost local populations of amphibians, to increase the natural value of school grounds, and to serve as a locale for observing the life cycles of plants, invertebrates, and amphibians. This article outlines important considerations in designing and building a pond from siting through…

Describes the physical organization, philosophy, and methodology of the Rachel McMillan Nursery School in London, England. Compares the differences between British and United States nursery schools. Suggests ways in which the McMillan philosophy might be implemented in United States nursery schools. (BB)

Contends that folk (independent) high schools in Denmark have reduced the barriers between education and employment for adults who left school early. Claims that independent schools embody the principles of open education. Examines the current reform work taking place in adult education. Assesses the establishment of self-administration and…

Describes techniques to estimate costs to both physically improve a school facility and make it more educationally adequate. Discusses developing the space-utilization plan, designing for scheduling efficiency, and calculating costs for the site and specific facilities. (LMI)

Examines some of the basic issues involved in creating a warm and safe day-care environment for infants and toddlers, one that supports and promotes development and learning. Describing policies that were generated from everyday classroom experience, discusses the issues of security and trust, separation anxiety, group size, exploration and…

Educational facility planners can work with educators to design learning environments for the future as places that will be flexible, adaptable, and readily reconfigured when appropriate. Planners and educators need to understand the effectiveness of learners, teachers, and organizations. (MLF)

Both Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are intended to promote the removal of the physical barriers that deny individuals with disabilities access to educational programs and activities. Addresses the relationship between the ADA and Section 504 along with the responsibilities of…

Addresses the practical requirements in providing barrier-free access to schools. Special attention is given to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Outlines requirements for the following areas: (1) parking, passenger loading, and building access; (2) corridors, elevators, and stairs; (3) classrooms; (4) restrooms; (5)…

Considered still valid today, this article was originally published in the December 1972 issue of this journal (EJ 068 129). Emphasizes that the selection of a school site is a complex decision that has a long-term effect on the community. Discusses initial decisions, potential rezoning, site characteristics, and special urban problems. Identifies…

Examines how school district/community organization alliances help fund new school construction as well as provide students and the general public with extended services. Examples of how school/community-use programs evolved and their accomplishments are provided. (GR)

Outlines important issues to address when planning video production facilities in a school's media center. Discusses spatial, light, and temperature considerations; determining amount to be spent, what the studio will be used for, and selecting equipment; considering digital video and nonlinear editing systems; visiting schools that already have a…