Outlines how literacy can be a natural part of the English-as-a-Second-Language classroom, carving pathways to meaningful conversations among second-language learners. Describes the physical setting of a specific classroom and its integrated language program. Discusses five literacy-based strategies that support conversation in ESL classrooms. (SR)

Notes environmental factors affecting adult learning situations: territoriality, seating arrangements, sightlines, and equipment. A checklist for conducting a space audit includes features inside and outside the classroom. (SK)

Describes how play centers can be enriched in the functional uses of print. Details some of the effects observed on the frequency and quality of literacy activities in the spontaneous play of 37 preschoolers. (MG)

Describes the methodology in school building capacity determination and reasons for its periodic reevaluation. Determinants of capacity include analysis of classroom function and size requirements as mandated by educational departments and building codes. Reasons for reevaluation include changes in educational programs, expansion of services, and…

Describes functional assessment as a method teachers can use to develop classroom accommodations and interventions for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Presents a rationale for adopting a functional approach and describes the basic stages and steps of functional assessment and various accommodations and interventions…

Discusses the importance of establishing a learning-technology plan when bringing electronic technology into classrooms campuswide. Conducting the classroom audit and synthesis phases of the plan are described as are the need to understand the modes of teaching and learning, classroom type, and types of equipment. Tips are offered on properly…

A preschool staff project was undertaken to develop and implement a more efficient curriculum organization plan and curriculum rotation system. The aim of the project was to provide a healthier working environment by improving communication among the teaching team, organizing curriculum storage outside the classroom, designing curriculum rotation…

This study examined 40 preschool children's knowledge of learning centers in their classrooms. Results revealed that children were more able to name an activity for each center than to name the centers, and were least able to describe the developmental purposes of the centers. Children's drawings of their classrooms suggest that they recognize the…

Provides information for establishing multimedia standards for university classrooms based on experiences at Harvard University. Includes descriptions of standards for items ranging from assistive listening systems with related ADA (Americans with Disabilities) requirements to projectors, and encourages the establishment of standards based on…

Key requirements for a successful music program include a supportive environment, constructive communication, an effective floor plan, and quality equipment.Unless music education's value is recognized, adequate resources, funding, and equipment will not be committed. Music programs require substantially more space and soundproofing than regular…

Examines two preschool programs in the New Orleans area in terms of their arrangement of indoor and outdoor space to implement developmentally appropriate practices. Explains that they can serve as inspiration to other early childhood professionals who struggle to create meaningful experiences for young children in "second-hand" space. (EV)

Examines the school-within-a-school approach to middle-school design in creating multiple specialized learning environments for students. Discusses planning and designing these types of school environments, with emphasis on not confining or restricting students from experiencing the larger school environment's other functions and activities. (GR)

Examines the effects of soloistic versus blended choral singing and random versus acoustic choral seating arrangements on evaluations of choral blend and overall choral sound. States that 37 choral conductors, 33 voice teachers, and 32 nonvocal musicians rated performances of four pieces by a choir of 22 voice majors. Includes references. (CMK)

Embedded in the public mind and school architectural design is a deeply rooted image of teaching. This traditional image, established well over a century ago, persists despite a continued interest and repeated efforts on the part of educators to change the every day experiences of teachers and students. Indeed, examinations of teacher practices…

This narrative inquiry reveals some behavior of digital-era students learning writing in a new digital classroom. The teaching methods, the physical design of the classroom, and the impact of the new technology are observed, along with the pedagogical theories in use. I suggest that a basic and significant change in students' writing behavior has…