Discusses technology and equipment requirements for developing an effective distance-learning classroom. Areas covered include cabling, the control booth, microphones, acoustics, lighting, heating and air conditioning, cameras, video monitors, staffing, and power requirements. (GR)

Examines whether children make more noise on a windy day and argues that predictions made on the basis of hearsay or intuition may not be proved by rational consideration of experimental evidence. Finds that there is no correlation between a windy day and student noise levels. (Author/CCM)

Discusses how to create effective school computer labs covering such topics as programming, planning considerations, planning a flexible infrastructure, and controlling the environment. Top considerations in designing a good computer lab are listed. (GR)

Discusses considerations in flooring, wiring, and furniture when remodeling classrooms for the information age. Conversion planning stages are addressed. (GR)

Presents a list of affordable decorating suggestions for elementary classrooms, including: a reading tepee where students can read quietly; bouquets of construction paper flowers with students' pictures in them; an art center that displays posters of paintings by famous artists; colorful curtains created with bulletin board paper; and a secret…

Describes the design process of a revolutionary high school design that melds technology and the arts to provide students with employable skills that future job markets require. (GR)

Describes the next generation of technology classrooms based on experiences at Lehigh University (Pennsylvania). Topics include learner-centered rather than instructor-centered instruction; size; interactivity; and technology features, emphasizing flexibility and interactive technology. An appendix lists selected classroom technology Web sites and…

Explains the four critical factors needed in designing music suites for middle schools that can help achieve the music program's education goals while accommodating the specialized activities and equipment needs of the suite. Factors examined are the acoustics, floor plan, storage, and equipment needs. (GR)

Presents photographs and the floor plan of a middle school whose split-level design separates "noisy" areas, such as the band room and gymnasium, from the academic wing. The design encourages teaming and flexibility through its classroom clustering and mobile partitions between classrooms. Additionally, all classrooms possess windows and…

Presents suggestions for setting up a classroom that is organized, efficient, and welcoming, focusing on the following elements: the conference table, individual work trays, flower arrangements, a small rug area, paper files, folder storage, book bags, reading baskets, the teacher's chair and easel, a meeting area, and low-level tables. (SM)

The progress of a class of tenth grade Honors Biology I students learning in an open space learning environment during the first six weeks of the 1985-86 school year was compared to the progress of a similar class studying under the same teacher in a traditional, closed classroom the following year. The study was conducted in Westfield High School…

Described are methods of organizing the learning environment to enhance the education of seriously emotionally disturbed elementary level children. It is explained that the environment should combine interest with opportunities for self regulation, and should encourage individualized programming and flexibility. Requirements (such as equipment…

The purpose of this study was to describe the relationship between spatial division of the early childhood classroom and teachers' perceptions of changes in this division. Eighty-four teachers were given photographs of a classroom which was presented in low, moderate, and high levels of spatial division. As they viewed each photograph, subjects…

TWO OF THE MOST IMPORTANT OPERATIVE DESIGN FACTORS GOVERNING SPEECH PERCEPTION IN CLASSROOMS HAVE BEEN EXAMINED AND GUIDELINES IN THE FORM OF GRAPHS, ETC. CONSTRUCTED THAT SHOULD BE UNDERSTANDABLE TO AND USABLE BY THOSE ASSOCIATED WITH SCHOOL PLANNING AND DESIGN. THE TWO FACTORS CONSIDERED ARE--(1) PROVISION FOR OPTIMUM REVERBERATION TIME, AND (2)…