This paper describes a study that developed innovations that would enable modular builders to improve the energy performance of their classrooms without increasing their first cost. The Modern Building Systems' classroom building conforms to the stringent Oregon and Washington energy codes, and, at $18 per square foot, it is at the low end of the…

Designed to address the management and use of computer software in education and training, this paper explores both good and poor software design, calling for improvements in the quality of educational software by attending to design considerations that are based on general principles of learning rather than specific educational objectives. This…

The technical feasibility and economic benefits of an Integrated Utility System (IUS) at the University of Florida are addressed, as are the environmental and institutional factors. This study demonstrates a conservational and economic advantage in supplying the energy necessary for heating and cooling as a by-product of power generation. Contents…

A growing awareness of environmental problems and energy scarcity has led architects and engineers to reevaluate their approaches to building design. Three approaches to combining environmental control systems with design in the Department of Architecture at the University of Oregon are discussed. (MLW)

Describes attributes of educational facilities that (1) influence occupants' performance (physical factors, task-related factors, user-friendliness, organizational qualities); (2) convey subtle messages (design statements, accessibility, spatial factors, aesthetics); and (3) influence programs and their delivery (technology, learning-style…

Applies learning theory and ergonomic principles to the design of effective learning environments for library instruction. Discusses features of electronic classroom ergonomics, including the ergonomics of physical space, environmental factors, and workstations; and includes classroom layouts. (Author/LRW)

The task group report presented in this publication is one of a series prepared by eminent psychologists who have served as consultants in the U.S.O.E.-sponsored grant study to conduct a Critical Appraisal of the Personality-Emotions-Motivation Domain. In order to attain the goal of identifying important problems and areas for new research and…

The classroom environment is a working surround in which children, through participating in organized experiences, can grow and develop in an optimum manner. Classroom design requires organization of principles of environmental control in order to assure efficient and successful performance. This control cannot be left to chance. In considering…

The basic concepts and several examples of the effects of the physical environment on man are discussed. Aesthetic judgments of the environment are related primarily to the physiological well-being of an individual and secondarily to his social experiences. Excessive loading of any one of the senses can prevent a balanced assessment of the…

Indicates what happens to man when he suffers sensory deprivation, and underscores color's influence on behavior patterns. (Author)

The report on preliminary administration of the AEBLE (Assessment of Environmental Barriers to Leisure Experiences) instrument to 18 orthopedically impaired children reveals five factors (all but the family support) to be considered problems: community reaction resources, architectural barriers, accessible and available transportation, community…

Abstracts of 40 selected books and articles on the topic of interactions between children and their environments are provided in this document. Works abstracted were selected from a pool of over 1200 items. The abstracts are organized into five categories: (1) theories of child care and play; (2) child-environment research; (3) descriptions of…

Quality, not intensity, is the keystone to good library lighting. The single most important problem in lighting is glare caused by extremely intense centers of light. Multiple interfiling of light rays is a factor required in library lighting. A fixture that diffuses light well is basic when light emerges from the fixture. It scatters widely,…

Until recently, architects and school board trustees have been absorbed with the first order effects of science and technology -- i.e., the buildings produced. The side effects that have been ignored must now receive higher priority. Architects and engineers have tried to solve some technical problems by designing and constructing windowless or…

Presents a research study using three data-gathering methods--interview, behavioral diary, and behavioral map--to determine the effect of library design on student behavior. The values of normative data and the methods used are discussed, and it is concluded that physical design may influence behavior and satisfaction. (CWM)