In this study, several examples of the relationship between environmental structure and the functional characteristics of objects interacting in an elementary educational environment are presented. These examples are interpreted within a frame of reference derived from a synthesis of concepts and principles from behavioral science and general…

A determination was made of whether any change occurred in the self-concept of children in the open space environment as compared to the change of self-concept of children in a self-contained environment. A total of 216 children, part from an open space environment school and the others from self-contained classrooms at grade levels with one…

Presented are guidelines for the use of learning centers to implement individualized instruction with elementary grade educable mentally retarded students. After an introduction, sections focus on the following topics: goals, objectives, the meaning of learning centers, operation of learning centers, classroom design, and starting the day. The…

A classroom floor plan, conforming to theoretically equable features (line of sight bearings, expanding/concentrically diminishing wave forms, vectors proportionate, "time") is presented to show that an equable state exists but is entirely theoretical and as a reminder that different options can exist without diminishing the basic human…

This guide was developed for North Carolina teachers in early childhood education and focuses on how play-based center activities in kindergarten teach literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts. Development of the guide was based on educators' experiences and their understanding of how children learn. The guide's introduction…

To be effective, a teacher should sell himself/herself before selling ideas, be genuine, make learning relevant, practice goal setting, invite in outside lecturers, provide an orderly classroom setting, dress appropriately and maintain rapport, and make the most effective use of visual aids. (LRA)

Discusses nine common myths, which represent collective opinions based on false assumptions or are the product of fallacious reasoning, associated with developmentally appropriate programs for young children. (BB)

To assist teachers in promoting successful transitions of preschool children with handicaps to integrated preschools or kindergartens, this article summarizes research findings on teachers' classroom organization, behavioral characteristics of most and least independent children in mainstream settings, and differences in the instructional…

Describes how Head Start teachers can support children's emergent literacy by improving their classroom environment. Includes suggestions for designing the floor plan, enriching the print environment within each learning center, and making the literacy center the classroom's focal point. (KB)

Examines general principles in designing child care centers and preschools: (1) design the site and building so that it has a friendly, child-like, inviting image; and (2) design child development environments to be child scaled, including furnishings, materials, the building, and the site as a whole. Contains criteria and suggestions for…

Explores the nature of indigenous extended family relationships and determines its potential for designing new classroom structures in bicultural schools. Reports supporting views from the work of several educators in bicultural schools. Shows that children in family-based schools had fewer late, absent, and dropout incidents than those in…

The special classroom design needs implied by different teaching methods (lecture, discussion, lecture with audiovisuals, group instruction via computer, self-paced learning, specialized teaching) are examined; and classroom planning considerations are discussed. Three fixed-design room types are described and their advantages and disadvantages…

Observed the effects of dramatic play center variations on children's social and cognitive play behaviors. Found that solitary-designed centers facilitated more solitary play than group-designed centers; dramatic play increased in the intervention and follow-up housekeeping centers compared to the baseline housekeeping center; and thematic centers…

Relates personal experiences to the challenges of the inclusive classroom. Details recommendations for inclusive classrooms, including the following: value each child's uniqueness; individualize expectations and goals; adapt the classroom environment to support children's needs; tailor staff responsibilities to support children's needs; and…