Resource Lists
SCHOOL FURNISHINGS
Information on the selection, safety, ergonomics, and maintenance of school and university furniture, compiled by the National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities. References to Books and Other Media
The Third Teacher (North Shore Country Day School, Dec 16, 2011)
Architect Trung Le talks about Winnetka, Illinois North Shore Country Day's Upper School project, featuring adaptable classroom spaces, common gathering areas, and flexible furnishings.
Tools at School. The Classroom for Kids Designed by Kids. (Tools-At-Schools, May 2011)
Design studio aruliden, together with Bernhardt Design, conceived Tools at Schools as an initiative to teach eighth graders the value of design as a problem-solving tool at The School at Columbia University. Forty-four eighth grade students were immersed in the entire design process, from research to ideation to 3D modeling and ultimately launch of chairs, desks, and lockers. The lockers, for example, feature a doorknob (inspired by one student describing her locker as her bedroom for the semester) and a wealth of storage, including seven shelves and a tilt-out bin. A clever addition is the name tag that doubles as a mail slot –- which won raves among the students. Includes a description of the process, photos, and videos.
Steelcase Education Solutions Case Study: University of Michigan (Steelcase, Feb 17, 2011)
The University of Michigan takes a fresh approach to their classrooms, implementing a strategy that includes engagement, collaboration and flexibility. A variety of classroom set-ups and solutions offer students a variety of classroom experiences. Each incorporating collaborative tools and technology.
Learning Spaces.
Macphee, Larry (Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff , 2011)
Discusses current low-cost ideas for enhancing informal and formal learning spaces. Informal spaces can include display kiosks in common areas, providing power and comfortable furniture in waiting spaces, distributed dining facilities, and collaborative spaces. Recommendations for formal instruction areas room layout, mobile technology, and furnishings. Details of furniture, acoustics, lighting, sightlines, electricity, and audiovisual equipment are also addressed. 19p.
Hub Life: Insights That Shape Campus Spaces.  (Herman Miller, Zeeland, MI , 2011)
Presents responses to a survey of higher education facility planners as to what design and planning elements best suit a "hub," or campus common area. In hub zones, technology is a top priority; accessibility is key; furnishings need to be flexible; and spaces should be designed for less than ten people.
2p.
Steelcase Education Solutions Case Study: Stanford d.school (Steelcase, Dec 06, 2010)
The d.School's philosophy holds that space, furniture, tools, and technology are integral to pedagogy. Students are encouraged to display their ideas and work in progress. See how they use their space to promote behaviors critical to design thinking, such as empathy and experimentation.
Specifying Lockers to Meet 2010 ADA Standards [Online Course] (Hanley Wood University, Jul 2010)
The “2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design” issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) contain new provisions that directly impact design specifications and construction on school projects completed after March 15, 2012. Failure to comply with newly mandated minimums could generate problems not only for schools and school districts, but also raise liability issues regarding architect responsibility. This course covers critical changes in ADA guidelines, focusing on key aspects relating to schools, ADA students, locks and lockers. We’ll compare functionality, ease of use and features of ADA-compliant locks and non-compliant locks. We’ll look at value-added design advantages, cost issues and long-term operational flexibility factors for you to consider when you are specifying locker locks for your next project. Finally, we’ll detail new product options available to better serve students whose abilities fall within the ADA Standards.
Steelcase Node Classroom Chair and Tribeca Flashpoint (Steelcase, Jun 14, 2010)
Learn what's really happening in today's classrooms through the eyes of a state-of-the-art school, and how the new Steelcase node classroom chair helped solve their needs. The node chair provides the ultimate in flexibility, allowing the students to learn how they best learn, and the instructors to teach how they want to teach. The node chair provides an active learning environment. Something that is important to what Tribeca Flashpoint is looking to accomplish in their space.
Innovation Park at Notre Dame.
(Herman Miller, Inc., Zeeland, MI , 2010)
Profiles this higher education facility with flexible interiors that enables students to collaborate with companies to test the commercial potential of ideas. The building has very few permanent walls, minimalist staff space, and movable furniture to accommodate a variety of groups. 2p.
University of Michigan, Ross School of Business.
(Herman Miller Inc., Zeeland, MI , 2010)
Profiles this airy and comfortable facility, in which operable windows, abundant furniture, and attractive ash veneers throughout create an agreeable learning environment. 2p.
Adaptable Spaces and Their Impact on Learning.
(Herman Miller Inc., Zeeland, MI , 2009)
Quantifies the benefits of flexible learning environments with figures representing the learning benefits of comfort, convenience, lighting, movable furnishings, and good acoustics. 22 references are included. The data and text reflect the observations of various institutions participating in the Learning Studio program.
Steelcase LearnLab---Learning Outside the Box (SteelCase, 2009)
Classrooms today must support frequent collaboration and communication, easy transfer of information between individuals and groups, the effective display of content and the need for teams to constantly reconfigure and switch between different ways of working. These are the demands that the LearnLab environment was designed to meet. The LearnLab grew out of a user-centered design process developed by Steelcases WorkSpace Futures group. The process begins with research to clearly understand end users and their specific needs.
Furniture for Schools.
Holder, Anna (Imagine, Sheffield, England , Winter-Spring 2009)
Discusses the importance of furniture in learning environments, accompanied by an international array of examples of conscientious and innovative school furnishing solutions. 8p.
Classroom Colors Make a Difference.
Smith, Linda (Hertz Furniture Systems, Mahwah, NJ , 2009)
Discusses the psychology of color, color recommendations for classrooms, the effect of various colors on mood and concentration, and opportunities for adjusting classroom color through furniture and furnishings selection. 2p.
Computer Ergonomics for Elementary School
(Oregon Public Education Network, 2008)
Shows simple ways to set up a computer workstation so that it is safe and comfortable for children.
Promoting Healthy Movement and Natural Alignment.
(Herman Miller Inc., Zeeland, MI , 2008)
Summarizes research on chair ergonomics, addressing the support of all areas of the spine through movement at a desk or workstation, and anatomical differences among people. Solutions that encourage good posture when sitting erect or reclining are described and illustrated in diagrams. Eight references are included. 7p.
Learning Journeys, Moving Towards Designs for New Learning Spaces: Two Truths and a Suggestion.
(British Council for School Environments, London, United Kingdom , 2007)
Discusses how educational space should reflect the pedagogy, the role of flexible furniture in learning spaces, and how boundaries between formal and informal learning spaces should be blurred. 19p.
Beware of the Sitting Trap in Learning and Schooling.
Breithecker, D. (DesignShare , 2006)
Reviews the necessity of movement in children to promote learning, presenting concepts of "active-dynamic" sitting and advocating furniture that accommodates dynamic load shifts in the body. 4p.
Equipping and Furnishing Early Childhood Facilities. Community Investment Collaborative for Kids Resource Guide Volume 3.
(Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Community Investment Collaborative for Kids, New York, NY , Jun 2005)
Provides guidance to help select and arrange classroom furniture and equipment to create a child-safe and child-friendly, as well as functional and attractive physical environment. The guide focuses on programs serving children from infancy through preschool, and emphasizes equipment and layout of space to support the development of young children. It offers a step-by- step plan, beginning with an empty room and proceeding through room layout, various activity areas, and the equipment and furnishings that should accompany each area. 38p.
Enjoying School, Fun in Learning.
Breithecker, Dieter (Federal Working Group for Posture and Mobilization Support, Wiesbaden, Germany , 2005)
Reviews the adverse health effects of excessive sitting by children in German schools, mostly in inappropriate furniture. Types of ergonomically correct chairs and desks are reviewed, including swivelling and flexible chairs, standing desks, and movable cabinets. A plan to test the the positive developmental effects of movement and "dynamic sitting" in class is detailed. 10p.
The Educational Workplace: What the "Classroom of the Future" Will Look Like.
Breithecker, Dieter (Federal Working Group for Posture and Mobilization Support, Wiesbaden, Germany , 2005)
Presents the results of a German study that used interventions to test the impact of ergonomic improvements in elementary school students. The four-year experiment provided the test group with ergonomically designed furniture that permitted movement within the desk-chair configuration. When compared to the control group, which did not receive the furniture, the test group demonstrated better posture, chest and spine development, and better performance on concentration tests. 11p.
Furniture for Libraries.
Graham, Carole (Libris DESIGN, funded by The Institute of Museum and Library Services , 2005)
This discusses the library furniture program, procurement methods, furniture selection, materials selection, furniture types, and furniture installation. Includes a glossary of furniture terminology and further sources of information.
Furniture Selection: Part of an Integrated Design Process.
Hill, Franklin (Schoolfacilities.com , 2005)
Recommends coordination of furniture selection with the school design process, as specific arrangements of furniture are typically envisioned at the design stage. Table and seating configurations are illustrated. 3p.
Outdoor Bleachers.
(North Carolina State Board of Education, Raleigh. , Aug 2003)
Plans for permanent bleachers (consisting of five or more rows of seats) purchased and installed for use on K-12 athletic/play fields must be reviewed by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's (NCDPI) School Planning Section of the School Support Division. Bleachers may be purchased by local school boards as part of a regular new school, addition or renovation project, or stand-alone bleacher project, designed by a North Carolina licensed architect and/or engineer and submitted to School Planning for review in the normal process. They may also be purchased through the North Carolina Division of Purchase and Contract. School Planning is always required to review the plans. Structural designs for pre-engineered structures or systems used for school projects are often incomplete when bid documents are completed. Conditional certificates of review that allow mobilization and site preparation to begin prior to completion of final structural designs can be issued following review of bid documents. Project reviews are completed and certificates of review issued upon certification to School Planning that foundations and other structural systems have been designed or reviewed and approved by North Carolina registered structural engineers. This report presents NCDPI planning section recommendations, codes and design standards, NC Accessibility Code Volume I-C, and National Fire Protection Association requirements. 10p.
Guidelines: General Recommendations for Computer Use.
(Ergonomics for Children & Educational Environments. A Technical Committee of the International Ergonomics Association, Jul 2003)
These guidelines incorporate basic ergonomic principles into all aspects of computer use in schools and at home. Through text and photographs, it recommends the position of students in relation to the keyboard/mouse height. There is also a discussion of the use of laptops by children and young adults.
Furniture for the Future. New Ideas for Tomorrow's Classroom.
(Dept. for Education and Skills; Design Council, London, England , 2003)
The British Design Council gave three teams of designers and manufacturers the challenge of producing innovative yet cost-effective school furniture that creates better learning experiences for pupils. In this publication, the teams explain the processes that led to three very different concepts including a radical reworking of the traditional classroom chair and table (featuring a swivel seat which orbits around an adjustable table); a unique primary school table that is easy to stack and group and can be adjusted to suit pupils of different heights; and a multi-purpose workbench that allows pupils to write, sketch, and carry out practical work in the same place. Extensively illustrated throughout, the publication also features examples of learning environments and resources from around the world. 64p.
TO ORDER:
Design Council, 34 Bow Street, London WC2E 7DL, United Kingdom. Tel: 44-020-7420-5200.http://www.designcouncil.org.uk/
Adjustable Tables and Chairs Correct Posture and Lower Muscle Tension and Pain in High School Students.
Hanninen, Osmo; Koskelo, Reijo (Department of Physiology, University of Kuopio, Finland, 2003)
This study compares the effects of traditional non-adjustable and new adjustable school tables and chairs on the sitting and standing postures, muscle tension and pain levels as well as the learning success of during the three high school years when the growth of students reaches the adult measures. The results support the necessity of ergonomic approach in furniture planning of school classes and individual adjustment possibility of tables and chairs. 4p.
Kit for Purpose - Design to Deliver Creative Learning.
(Design Council, London, United Kingdom , Oct 2002)
Proposes ways to redesign the tools and resources of learning, and the systems of procurement, to raise academic achievement and support a 21st-century curriculum in Great Britain. The report describes the consequences of poorly designed and poor quality educational furnishings and resources. It proposes three different approaches to solving the problem by: linking the design of learning tools to educational outcomes, employing an interdisciplinary and participatory partnership approach, and linking policy and practice to adapt government guidance, regulation, control, and funding to meet the needs of a changing school system. 107p.
Ergonomic Evaluation of the KinderZeat Child Seat in a Preschool Setting.
(Cornell University, Ithaca, NY , 2002)
Evaluates the mobility of preschool children using the Kinderzeat, a Norwegian-manufactured high chair. While seated in Kinderzeats with and without footrests, the subjects were presented with "games" that evaluated maximum and convenient seated reach, task persistence, postural stability, fidgeting, and dismount from the chair. 17p.
School Chairs for Developing Countries: Designing for Strength and Durability, Simplicity, and Ease of Construction.
Eckelman, C.; Erdil, Y.; Haviarova, E (Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN , 2002)
Presents a structurally sound, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and ergonomically correct school chair design that is easily assembled using round mortise and tenon construction. The chair requires only a table saw and drill press, and can be constructed of small parts that can typically be machined from sawmill waste. The results of load tests, and formulas for calculating strength, stress, and load are provided. 21p.
Reorganizing Primary Classroom Learning.
Hastings, Nigel; Wood, Karen Chantrey (Open University Press, Philadelphia, PA , 2002)
This book addresses the issue of classroom organization in primary education, explaining evidence that it asserts should prompt primary schools to re-think the contexts in which children are expected to concentrate and learn. New ways of arranging classrooms are illustrated through case studies of teachers who take a flexible and strategic approach to the organization of learning. These are intended to demonstrate how children's attention and behavior can benefit from creating a better match between working contexts and tasks. Suggestions and resources are provided to help teachers review how they and their children work, and to plan and evaluate ways of using their classrooms more effectively to support learning. 152p.
Juvenile Computer Seating Design Recommendations and Analogs.
Herring, Donald (Faculty of Industrial Design, Arizona State University, Tempe., 2002)
This children's anthropometry and seating study addresses the need to provide ergonomically designed and appropriately sized adjustable seating to interface with the computer workstations and accommodate physical growth. 6p.
Home Workstation Ergonomics for the Online Learner
Rude-Parkins, Carolyn (In G. Richards (Ed.), Proceedings of World Conference on E-Learning in Corporate, Government, Healthcare, and Higher Education , 2002)
This presentation reports on a study that attempted to understand more about the conditions under which distance education students are working. It reviews the parameters already established for office-based workers, and applies them to the home distance-learning space. The focus of this study is physical ergonomics, as opposed to cognitive or organizational ergonomics or human factors. The factors of interest include specifications for the workstation desk, seating, computer monitor, keyboard and mouse, room lighting, and room environment. The presentation shares results of a survey of students in virtual university courses. The students rated conditions of their workstation related to five factors and identified their perception of the importance of each factor. The presentation includes an ergonomics checklist intended to be shared with distance learners. [Author's abstract]
p2115-2118
TO ORDER:
Education & Information Technology Libraryhttp://www.editlib.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Reader.ViewAbstract&paper_id=9827
Educational Environments.
Yee, Roger (Visual Reference Publications, Inc., New York, NY. , 2002)
This book presents examples of the United States' most innovative new educational facilities for decision makers developing educational facilities of the future. The projects in this book are visual evidence of how a number of the United States' top architecture and design firms are meeting the challenge of constructing learning spaces with creativity and vision. The architecture and interior design featured in the book illustrate how educational facilities create a value for their owners, making long-term investments in building products, interior furnishings, and technological infrastructure to establish enduring physical assets that optimize life cycle costs. The book concludes with "Can Johnny Compute?" (Roger Yee), which discusses the need for a massive and very expensive overhaul needed to make U.S. schools competitive in the new millennium. 283p.
TO ORDER:
Visual Reference Publications, Inc., 302 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10001; Tel: 212-279-7000 http://www.visualreference.com/
School Repair and Maintenance Handbook: Questions, Answers and Procedures.
(State of Hawaii, Dept. of Education, Honolulu , Oct 2001)
Outlines Hawaii's policies for obtaining school repairs, furniture replacement, refuse pickup, contractual maintenance for mechanical systems, community projects, and tree trimming. The document includes official forms to be used in making requests. 103p.
Learning Without Pain. Ergonomics Prevents Injuries.
(Healthy Schools Network, Inc., Albany, NY, Sep 2001)
This fact sheet provides basic information to parents and school staff on using ergonomic practices to prevent computer and back-pack related stresses or injuries. 2p.
TO ORDER:
Healthy Schools Network, Inc., 773 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 12208; Tel: 518-462-0632.http://www.healthyschools.org
Guidelines for Retrofitting Bleachers.
(Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC , 2001)
This brochure offers guidance on bleacher retrofitting to prevent falls, and it suggests follow-up inspections and maintenance practices. Bleacher styles are described. Descriptions are provided of deaths, injuries, and hazards associated with bleachers. An appendix presents an overview of current code and standards requirements for guardrails and openings in bleachers and grandstands. 16p.
Report NO: CPSC-R-330
Classrooms and Computers: An Elementary School Case Study.
Bennett, Cheryl (Proceedings of the International Society for Occupational Ergonomics and Safety XV Annual Conference, Fairfax, Virginia, USA, International Society for Occupational Ergonomics and Safety. , 2001)
Children now use computers throughout their education. As schools have focused on purchasing computers and providing internet access, there has been little consideration of ergonomics. Even if educators and school administrators acknowledge students would benefit from better ergonomics, they may assume it is too expensive or not know where to begin. This paper describes the processes used to implement low cost ergonomic improvements and provide training for teachers, staff and students in an elementary school. 10p.
Federal Working Group on the Development of Posture and Exercise on the Ergonomic Design of Pupils' Work Places.
Breithecker, Dieter (Federal Working Group for Posture and Mobilization Support, Wiesbaden, Germany , 2001)
Explains a child's need for movement, the health hazards of having them sit still for long periods of time, and how typical furniture works against principles of healthy movement. Advice on selection and proper adjustment of school desks and chairs is included, with attention to a configuration that encourages and follows a child's natural movement. 5p.
Classroom Spaces That Work. Strategies for Teachers Series.
Clayton, Marlynn K. (Northeast Foundation for Children, Greenfield, MA , 2001)
This guide for educators of kindergarten through grade 6 is designed to help teachers set up physical spaces that are
conducive to effective learning and teaching. Following an introduction, chapter 1 examines ways to make the classroom fit the
range of physical sizes in the group, accommodate children with special needs, and support students' developmental needs.
Chapter 2 presents strategies for developing and maintaining an orderly and predictable classroom, including furniture, storage
space, clustered work areas, and a personal space for each student. Chapter 3 focuses on the design of the whole-group
meeting area of the classroom. Chapter 4 examines how furniture, materials, and storage spaces can be set up for active
learning. Chapter 5 presents ways classroom displays can be used as a teaching tool. Chapter 6 discusses how to create
ambience in a classroom. Chapter 7 deals with avoiding health hazards in the classroom. 192p.
A Survey Study of Elementary Classroom Seating Designs.
Patton, James E.; Snell, Jennifer; Knight, Willis J.; Gerken, Kathryn (Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the National Association of School Psychologists, Washington, DC. , 2001)
This paper presents the results of a two-part study that investigated classroom
seating design preferences among elementary classroom teachers. In part one, the researchers
mapped and classified seating arrangements that were in actual use across 294 regular
classrooms (grades K-5) in 21 public elementary schools. Subsequently, the researchers asked
138 elementary regular classroom teachers (grades K-5) to describe, in a survey, the occasions
and their rationales for the seating designs they typically employed. In contrast to outcomes from
research conducted a decade ago, and irrespective of grade level and school socioeconomic
status, results showed that small group cluster designs were now used pervasively (i.e., in 76
percent of observed classrooms, and by 94 percent of surveyed respondents), apparently
because many contemporary teachers believe that this type of seating arrangement contributes
directly to students' educational growth through the effects of socially facilitated learning. The
study did not specifically address the validity of this belief, but it did yield a number of relevant,
testable propositions. 8p.
Tips for Furnishing the Learning Environment.
Dorrell, Angie; Sigsbee, Mike (Earlychildhood.com , Nov 2000)
This paper presents advice on what questions to ask and what points to consider when purchasing classroom furniture. The suggested questions help purchasers determine how safe the furniture is and how appropriate it is for a particular age group. Also provides easy-to-use references that cover planning a furniture purchase, making the actual purchase, and choosing a furniture vendor. 10p.
Seat Position and Contours for High School Chairs.
Tuttle, Neil Alan (Griffith University, School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Gold Coast, Australia , Jun 2000)
Examines the mechanics of interaction between a chair and its occupant, including the commonly considered features such as the heights, angles, and contours of the seat and backrest. Results of experiments with high school students adjusting their own seat height revealed a negative correlation with their popliteal (knee joint) height and a positive correlation with the height of the desk being used. Data was also collected concerning buttock contours in relation to posture, mass and gender. A synthesis of the research is accompanied by suggestions on how the findings may be applied to school chair design. Includes 88 references. 76p.
School Ergonomics Program Guidelines
(Cornell University, Department of Design and Environmental Analysis, Cornell Human Factors and Ergonomics Group, Ithica, NY , Mar 2000)
With the number of computers in classrooms increasing every day, many schools are beginning to institute ergonomics
programs to show students, teachers, and parents how to reduce the risks of computer-related injuries. These guidelines have been developed for the parents of school children and include the latest information on workstation design in schools, and how to improve existing workstations.
Design and Testing of Wooden School Desk Frames Suitable for Production by Low Technology Methods from Waste Wood Residues.
Haviarova, E.; Eckelman, C. ; Erdil, Y. (Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN , 2000)
Presents structurally sound yet aesthetically pleasing designs along with the accompanying production processes for desk frames producible by low technology processes from locally available waste or salvage woody materials such as plantation thinnings. Construction schematics, the results of load tests, and formulas for calculating strength, stress, and load are provided. 19p.
Design Standards for Children's Environments.
Ruth, Linda Cain (McGraw-Hill, New York, NY , 2000)
This 3-part book addresses the design or maintenance of spaces where children are the primary users covering both commercial and residential designs and products. Part I chapters provide anthropometric data of children from birth to age 18, offers dimensions for typical objects within the child's built environment; synthesizes the Consumer Product Safety Commission's safety guidelines for play areas; and provides dimensions of typical, and sometimes untypical, products that are often found in children's environments. Part II features a source list developed for designers that lists products appropriate for use in children's environments. Part III chapters outline the development of children's abilities and perceptions in the first stages of life from birth to age 10, and offers a bibliography of the most effective and highly regarded resources in the area of children's design. 306p.
Furniture and Equipment in Schools: A Purchasing Guide. Managing School Facilities Guide 7.
Wadsworth, Alison (Department for Education and Employment, London, England , 2000)
This British manual offers advice on the processes that should be followed when buying furnishings and equipment. The main body of the document discusses various aspects of purchasing. Sections 1 and 2 are concerned with the first steps, prior to purchasing, such as curriculum analysis and market exploration. Sections 3 and 4 look at the importance of creating a clear specification for F & E, both to insure that the school gets what it wants and that it achieves its value for money. The way in which the money can be organized into categories to insure a balanced budget is also considered, as is the need to take a whole school approach to F& E. Section 4 covers in detail the process that should be followed when buying F & E products. Section 5 analyses the types of suppliers schools may use to purchase F& E and the criteria that should be used to choose the most appropriate route. It features a flow chart which should give schools a clearly set out route for choosing the most appropriate supplier for their situation. 102p.
Modern Foreign Languages Accommodation: A Design Guide. Building Bulletin 92.
Williamson, Beech; Watson, Lucy (Dept. for Education and Employment, Architects and Building Branch, London , 2000)
This document offers school design guidance for accommodating the needs for teaching modern foreign languages (MFLs) in secondary education. Section 1 outlines the range of spaces in a typical MFL suite and describes how to calculate the number of timetabled spaces required. It includes guidance on planning the suite and what to consider if there is to be community use. Section 2 describes the teaching and non-teaching spaces that might be found in the MFL suite. It gives guidance on the size and shape of spaces and shows typical furniture layouts. Section 3 describes typical MFL equipment and how it can be used most effectively. It also provides guidance on choosing and using furniture. Section 4 outlines the process of setting up and implementing a building project, from briefing to on-site construction. Section 5 presents case studies showing the issues covered in the rest of the document applied to real school projects. 50p.
Designing Successful Technology-Rich Elementary Schools
McCreary, Faith; Reaux, Ray; Ehrich, Roger; Hood, Susan; and Rowland, Keith (Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Society 42nd Annual Meeting, October 5-9, 1998. , 1999)
Computers and network connectivity in the classroom raise new challenges in workspace design. Unlike corporate or dedicated laboratory facilities, a technology-rich classroom plays multiple roles throughout its working day. Classroom design demands flexible and robust construction, particularly when applied in an elementary school setting. Using the PCs for Families project as a case study, this paper discusses design issues of a technology- rich networked classroom from ergonomic design to system support.
Mismatch of Classroom Furniture and Student Body Dimensions. Empirical Findings and Health Implications.
Parcells, Claudia; Stommel, Manfred; Hubbard, Robert (Society for Adolescent Medicine , 1999)
The purpose of this study was to examine possible mismatch between the individual body dimensions of students and the classroom furniture they use. The data indicate a substantial degree of mismatch between the students' bodily dimensions and the classroom furniture available to them. Fewer than 20% of students can find acceptable chair/desk combinations. Most students are sitting in chairs with seats that are too high or too deep and at desks that are too high. Even after controlling for body stature, girls are less likely to find fitting chairs.
Art Accommodation in Secondary Schools. A Design Guide. Building Bulletin 89
Watson, Lucy; Wadsworth, Alison; Daniels, Richard; Wonnacott, Geoff (Department for Education and Employment, Architects and Building Branch, London, England , 1998)
This document provides a framework for accommodation of art and design in British secondary schools, concentrating on the needs of 11- to 16-year-old pupils. Section 1 outlines the range of teaching and non-teaching spaces likely to be required and key planning issues. Section 2 describes each teaching and non-teaching space and illustrates furnished plans of typical spaces. Section 3 provides guidance on a typical range of furniture and suggests ways of using this to establish a flexible environment. Section 4 summarizes the main regulations, providing a reference for further reading and guidance on the lighting of art rooms. Section 5 describes new and adapted art departments in four existing schools. Finally, Section 6 covers general cost issues and includes a case study cost analysis. 62p.
TO ORDER:
HMSO Publications Centre, P.O. Box 276, London, SW8 5DT; Tel: 0171-873-9090
Exceptional Children Facilities Planner; Sample Plans, Accessibility Guidelines
(North Carolina State Department of Public Instruction, Raleigh Division of School Support, School Planning, Raleigh, NC , Jun 1998)
This publication provides guidelines for designing facilities that support
inclusionary programs from kindergarten through high school. Facility
planning guidelines for instructional services are provided for: autism;
behaviorally-emotionally disabled; deaf-blind, multi-handicapped, and
severely/profoundly handicapped; hearing impaired; mentally disabled;
specific learning disabled; speech-language impaired; and visually
impaired. Each area provides a program description followed by
guidelines on space requirements, furnishings and equipment.
Appendixes list the classifications of exceptionality, adapted services,
accessibility guidelines, sample floor plans for self-contained exceptional
children facilities, and guidelines for seclusion or isolation time-out
areas. (Contains 10 references.) 51p.
Creating an Inviting Classroom Environment.
Foster-Harrison, Elizabeth S.; Adams-Bullock, Ann (Phi Delta Kappa, Bloomington, IN , 1998)
This booklet presents suggestions for teachers, administrators, and parents about how to make a school
better by improving the physical environment. Information comes from a study that analyzed environmental features which helped make a difference to students, teachers, and parents. During 1995-1997, two researchers examined classroom environments in rural, suburban, and urban settings. Through observations, interviews, and surveys, they made comparisons between what teachers actually had in their classrooms and what they said was important to have in the classroom learning environment. They compared the information to what parents and students believed. The study looked at five categories for comparison: furniture, aesthetics, comfort, instructional items, and professional items. Over 400 4th-8th grade teachers completed interviews and surveys. There were distinct differences between what was actually in the classrooms and what they ideally should have. 40p.
How to Choose Learning Stations and Seating for your Technology-based Classroom.
Sanborn, Fred (Interactive Learning Systems , 1997)
Covers such topics as how to orient your room; shutting out visual distraction; width of student spaces; how high should tabletops be; modular workspaces. 7p.
Thinking about Seating in Your School Grounds.
Russell, Liz (Learning Through Landscapes Trust, Winchester, England , 1996)
The Learning Through Landscape Trust's CD-ROM explores the issues connected with choosing, developing, locating, and using seating in school grounds. Designed to be used by teachers with pupils of all ages, the computer program includes sections on resources, maintenance, history, and pupil activities.
TO ORDER:
The Green Brick Road, 429 Danforth Ave., Ste. #408, Toronto, ON, Canada M4K 1P1; Tel: 800-473-3638 or 416-421-9816.
Planning Library Interiors. The Selection of Furnishings for the 21st Century. Revised
Edition.
Brown, Carol R. (Oryx Press, Phoenix, AZ , 1995)
The acquisition of library furniture and
shelving includes the following steps: look at the existing library space to determine which
furnishings work effectively and which ones do not; study specific service and collection plans and
consider how they relate to the library interior; determine the purpose of the new furnishings;
consider what furnishings can fulfill the requirements already determined; and make responsible
selections and purchase the furnishings. This second edition of "Selecting Library Furniture: A
Guide for Librarians, Designers, and Architects," has been completely reorganized and rewritten
and includes changes that have occurred in libraries such as compliance with the Americans with
Disabilities Act and new technologies that require special equipment. The book contains the
following 11 chapters: (1) Library Planning and the Furniture Selection Process; (2) Quality
Construction and Issues in Furniture Selection; (3) Shelving; (4) Service Desks; (5) Chairs; (6)
Tables, Carrels, and Computer Workstations; (7) Planning and Selecting Furnishings for Children's
Areas; (8) Furniture for Work Areas; (9) Sign Systems and Display; (10) The Bid Process; and
(11) The Library Furniture Market. 176p.
TO ORDER:
http://www.greenwood.com/
Ergonomic Guidelines for Designing Effective and Healthy Learning Environments for Interactive Technologies.
Weisberg, Michael (National Library of Medicine , 1993)
Many of the findings from ergonomics research on visual display workstations are relevant to the design of interactive learning stations. This paper briefly reviews ergonomics research on visual display workstations; specifically, (1) potential health hazards from electromagnetic radiation; (2) musculoskeletal disorders; (3)vision complaints; and (4) psychosocial stresses. Guidelines are provided on how to design an ergonomically correct workstation and learning environment that seek to balance human performance with learner satisfaction and well being. (Contains 64 references.) 15p.
Educational Furniture for the 16-19 Age Group: Specification and Design.
(Furniture Industry Research Association; Department for Education and Employment, Architects and Building Branch, London, UK , 1982)
A 1982 British study examined the furniture needs of 16-19 year-old students.
This report presented the findings on the technical and performance requirements in terms of
durability and ergonomics. This report examines the furniture requirements in teaching spaces,
social, refreshment and private study areas, storage requirements for pupils' personal belongings,
and functional requirements. It highlights the common difficulties and shortcomings currently being
encountered, covers the general background to the work, provides commentary on current
practice as witnessed during the visits and gleaned from the discussions during the project, and
concludes with specific recommendations on technical and ergonomic matters. Numerous
photographs and diagrams are contained throughout the report. (Contains 33 references.) 63p.
Found Spaces and Equipment for Children's Centers. A Report.
Passantino, Richard J. (Educational Facilities Laboratories, New York, NY , 1972)
Reports on turning discarded, overlooked, and inexpensive spaces or objects into useful places and things for child-oriented learning in preschools or day care centers. The document is organized into five sections: 1) Types of Places which demonstrates the wide variety of unlikely structures that have been converted into viable educational spaces; 2) Furniture and Equipment which features imaginative use of manufacturers’ “throwaways”; 3) Outdoor Spaces which points up the use of rooftops and vacant lots for solutions to urban play space problems; 4) Outdoor Things; and 5) How to Go About It which provides sources for help, licensing requirements and codes, and a checklist of found items. A bibliography and a directory of the centers described in the report are included. 72p.
Design for Paperbacks. A How-To Report on Furniture for Fingertip Access.
(Educational Facilities Laboratories, New York, NY , 1968)
Presents furniture designs aimed at providing physical solutions to the problems and needs generated by the use of paperbacks in education. First, they are directed toward accessibility of the books in the library, bookstores, classrooms, lounges, commons, corridors, and wherever else students may move or assemble in the school. Secondly, they are calculated to attract youngsters to reach for the books on impulse. The designs are adaptable in traditional buildings with fixed interior partitions and in buildings with increasing degrees of openness for team-teaching and non graded programs. 27p.
References to Journal Articles
Designing the 21st Century K-12 Classroom
McCrea, Bridget THE Journal; , 2p ; Jan 18, 2012
Describes six design elements that should be incorporated into the 21st Century classroom: desks and furniture that support collaboration; ample electrical outlets; a smart teacher lectern; lighting that's easy to control; physical space that goes beyond the single classroom; and fewer expansive gathering areas.
Schools Moving Away from Hallway Lockers. Virtual Storage Space Results in Savings, Efficiency. eSchool News; Jan 05, 2012
Lockers have served as a symbol of the American high school for decades, but with new technology–eBooks, interactive assignments, and web-based learning–they’re gradually becoming a thing of the past. School officials that have made the jump to lockerless cite several benefits: less noise, fewer tardies, and an increased sense of safety.
Smart Building Spaces Redefine Traditional School Environments School Construction News; Dec 13, 2011
Discusses serendipity spaces that manifest themselves in a variety of forms — from quiet study alcoves in a library, to a main traffic lounge complete with computer terminals and a nearby café; or a comfortable niche seating area adjacent to a window with a scenic view. These areas often reduce the sterility of classroom-oriented settings by featuring useful amenities such as private workstations, power outlets, wi-fi, convenient access to refreshments, televisions and reading material. Typically, these incorporate comfortable seating, such as couches and loungers with appropriately sized work tables. Such serendipity spaces are truly essential to allow the most efficient use of space and to offer reasons for students and faculty to interact outside the classroom walls.
Designing for the Classroom: A History of Herman Miller, in Photos.
Jackson, Nicholas The Atlantic; Dec 07, 2011
Today -- and for the past 40 years -- many of the chairs, desks, and tables designed by Herman Miller are released through the company's education division, which unites research with manufacturing to produce unique products that are meant to enhance the learning experience.
Development of a Consensus Standard for School Equipment: NSF/NSSEA 380 Breitner, Ashlee Educational Facility Planner; v45 n4 ; Dec 2011
In early 2010, NSF International and the National School Supply and Equipment Association (NSSEA) came together to develop quality standards for products and
equipment designed for use in schools across the United States. Discusses standards for furnishings, carpeting/flooring, and AV equipment.
Constructing the Perfect Design
Hendrickson, Tricia School Construction News; Nov 2011
Recommends incorporating FF&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment) responsibilities into the program management function, allowing school districts to pull multiple disciplines into one source, delivering synergy, and the best possible solutions. Project managers smooth out the FF&E process by serving as a liaison between school officials and all project teams, helping communicate each partner’s needs. In addition, as the functionality of Building Information Modeling advances, the FF&E process will enhance the ability to design in digital space before installing furniture and fixtures in real space. This will help detect unforeseen problems with infrastructure coordination.
Smart School Furniture
Insenga, Mario American School and University; Nov 2011
Furniture reuse and refurbishment can support school budget and environmental goals.
Furnishing for Connection. College Planning and Management; , p44-45 ; Oct 2011
Describes how the Fox School of Business at Temple University transformed a traditional classroom into a high-tech meeting and events space that can morph from seminar room to an event area in a few minutes and that offers a very high-tech video wall and wireless projection for all participants.
Furnishing for Students. Elrod, Brenda T. College Planning and Management; , p36-39 ; Oct 2011
Recounts how the University of Georgia kept students in the loop when selecting furniture and furnishings for the recent expansion of the Tate Student Center.
Flexible Classroom Furniture.
Hassell, Kim American School and University; Oct 01, 2011
Classroom design for the 21st-century learning environment should accommodate a variety of learning skills and needs. Recommends adaptable furniture and classroom spaces.
Modern Marvels. Today's Classrooms Boast Form and Function for Collaborative Learning. Jones, Tony Charter Schools Insider ; Oct 2011
As teaching methodologies have changed to more effectively reach every student in class and engage students collectively for longer, so too have the elements that go into classrooms. The form and function of cutting-edge classroom furniture and technology are designed to enhance mobility, flexibility and personalization.
Team Building in Class. Korber, Mira School Planning and Management; , p28-29 ; Oct 2011
Describes how collaboration tables in the 21st century classroom foster stimulating interactions through their functional and aesthetic design.
Furnishing for Acoustics Rivero, Victor College Planning and Management; , p40-43 ; Oct 2011
Discusses the system components and designs that should be considered for a classroom amplification system, where they should be installed, price considerations, how to integrate these into existing systems, and the expected life cycle.
Student Hubs: The New Campus Hot Spot.
Vredevoogd, Jeff Contract; Aug 17, 2011
The need for constant collaboration and connection is driving the emergence of a new type of learning space across college campuses—“hub zones” that offer a place for students to meet, gather, and work together. In hub zones, technology is a top priority; accessibility is key; furnishings need to be flexible; and spaces should be designed for less than ten people.
Aces of Space. Demski, Jennifer Campus Technology; v24 n10 , p32-34,36,38,39 ; Jun 2011
Profiles four schools that use technology, new design concepts, and flexible furnishings to reinvent their teaching spaces. Curved rooms, interconnected and networked electronic wall displays, modular furnishings on wheels, and classrooms with no front are described.
Total Cost of Ownership. O'Brien Stephanie College Planning and Management; v14 n6 , p53,54,56,58,59 ; Jun 2011
Discusses total cost of ownership (TCO) when making purchasing decisions, i.e., considering all costs expnded over the life of an item, both hard and soft. Faculty desks, staff chairs, and microscopes are used as examples in considering TCO. The article highlights a new awareness of hidden costs, and "green" considerations in decisions to replace existing supplies.
Key to Classroom Design is Furnishings. School Planning and Management; v50 n5 , p34,35 ; May 2011
Advises on the selection of flexible classroom furnishings, while also addressing computer keyboard and monitor height, multiple electrical drops, and consultation with the teachers who will be using the space.
Furnishings with Flexibility. Hoskins, Jennifer College Planning and Management; v14 n5 , p32,34,36,38,40 ; May 2011
Advises the selection of higher education furniture that permits individual flexibility, accommodates technology, and pays careful attention to the education programming of the space.
The School Library Space is Changing. Wernick, Laura American School and University; v83 n9 , p24,26,28 ; May 2011
Discusses the evolution of school libraries toward being social and "learning commons" spaces, and away from being storage for large quantities of books. The article emphasizes that this trend extends all the way down to the early learning and elementary school levels.
Furnishing in the Face of Disaster Kamal, Sameea School Construction News; Mar 11, 2011
After flooding in Nashville, a school was rebuilt featuring furnishing from The HON Company, an Iowa-based office furniture designer and manufacturer. The company furnished the classrooms — preschool through 12th grade — with its SmartLink line, which includes a full line of furniture designed to organize classrooms in way that focuses on technology, flexibility, comfort, and visual coordination.
Mobile Learning.
Erickson, Paul American School and University; v83 n7 , p34-37 ; Mar 2011
Disputes conventional thinking that movement detracts from concentration. New furniture is being developed that permits and encourages a variety of postures: sitting, standing, and lying on soft surfaces. Moveable furniture includes modular sofa islands for group work or video viewing, and also accommodation for using and storing laptop computers.
Last but Not Least.
Eckmann, Aimee School Planning and Management; v50 n2 , p20-24 ; Feb 2011
Describes how an early learning center with a large special needs enrollment carefully selected furniture for ergonomics and a warm palette. Before purchasing, various furnishings were tested in place, with teachers and therapists evaluating the results.
Designed for Learning.
Magney, Tammy; Sorenson, Kim American School and University; v83 n6 , p26,28,29 ; Feb 2011
Discusses an array of classroom design and furnishing options that encourage diverse learning modes, movement, and accommodation of technology.
Working Together.
Sullivan, Margaret American School and University; v83 n2 , p24,26,27 ; Oct 2010
Discusses design and furnishing options for collaboration areas in schools. Flexibility and technology integration are emphasized, noting the evolution of these concepts from business environments to higher education, but with few K-12 manufacturers making the change.
Furniture Selection Tips. Sawicki, Sandra College Planning and Management; Aug 2010
Provides tips and suggestions to keep in mind when determining furniture needs for any new school project, including gathering information, selecting a furniture czar, be prepared, establish a budget, plan ahead, know your technology, and select a reputable furniture vendor.
Back to School.
Hall, Peter Metropolis; v29 n11 , p98-101 ; Jun 2010
Profiles educational furniture designed to accommodate current higher education students, who are larger and carry more belongings to class.
Maximizing Investment.
Stewart, David American School and University; v82 n9 , p26-29 ; Apr 2010
Discusses the participation of school furniture in curriculum delivery, proper fit of furniture to student size, and components of durable and "green" furniture.
High-Performance Furnishings.
Matschulat, Robert School Planning and Management; v49 n3 , p28,30-35 ; Mar 2010
Reviews elements of high performance schools and describes a lag in a high performance approach regarding school furnishing. Frequently overlooked features such as ergonomics, flexibility, kinesthetics and individual control are discussed.
Furniture Evolution.
Wiens, Janet College Planning and Management; v13 n3 , p32,34,36,38 ; Mar 2010
Discusses the involved evolution of residence hall furniture. Pieces found in residence halls today are more home-like than what was used years ago. Expectations for flexibility, privacy, aesthetics, security, and sustainability are described.
In Position to Learn.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v82 n6 , p20-22 ; Feb 2010
Advises on the selection of ergonomic, adjustable classroom furnishings that can be easily rearranged. Problems with some typical designs and advice on accommodating posture, motion, and technology are also described.
The Imagined Space of the Web 2.0 Classroom.
Batson, Trent Campus Technology; Jan 2010
Advises on accommodating technology in a classroom. Rooms should be square or rounded instead of rectangular since sight-lines and visual display of information is now as important as the sound of voices; moving furniture for different ways to work with technology should not cause a sudden roar of noise, chair and table legs scraping on tile, but instead the soft rolling of table and chair on a soft surface.
Computer Labs Get Rebooted as Lounges: New Gathering Places for Laptop Users Help Colleges Save on Upkeep.
Terris, Ben Chronicle of Higher Education; Dec 06, 2009
This discusses new gathering places for laptop users that may help colleges reduce expenses. More than 11% of colleges and universities are phasing out computer labs or plan to do so. New spaces might be lounges filled with modular furniture and plasma televisions; virtual labs that give remote laptops access to software; or better computer rooms with state-of-the-art machines and pleasing architecture that can act as de facto student centers.
Bodies in Motion, Brains in Motion.
Breithecker, Dieter School Planning and Management; v48 n10 , pF3,F4,F6 ; Oct 2009
Emphasizes the importance of physical activity in the learning environment, allowing movement while seated, not requiring extended periods of sitting, and flexible ergonomic seating.
Multi-Use Computer Classrooms.
Kessell, John School Planning and Management; v48 n10 , pF8-F11 ; Oct 2009
Discusses the connection between computer classroom furniture selection and universal design, emphasizing flexibility, ease of reconfiguration, flip-up computers, laptop safes, and selecting a collaborative partner to help select furnishings.
Collaboration Creates A State-of-the-Art Medial School Learning Center.
Kessell, John; Korber, Jeffrey College Planning and Management; v12 n10 , pF17-F20 ; Oct 2009
Discusses how a university collaborated with a vendor to furnish learning spaces with laptop-ready workstations that are networkable and can be arranged into pods. Sightlines in any direction were preserved by the geometry of the workstations.
Form Follows Furniture.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v12 n10 , pF3,F4,F6 ; Oct 2009
Discusses trends toward flexible higher education classroom design which mandates movable and flexible furnishings that accommodate technology. Involving the interior designer in the planning stage for a teaching space is emphasized.
Into the Wild: Campus Site Furnishings.
O Connor, Shannon College Planning and Management; v12 n10 , pF8,F10,F12,F14,F16 ; Oct 2009
Discusses selection of outdoor campus furniture, emphasizing durability, low-maintenance, immobility, ADA compliance, standardizing furnishings across a campus, and warranties.
Why Recycling Makes Sense for Schools.
Roskos, Bob School Planning and Management; v48 n10 , pF12-F16 ; Oct 2009
Discusses the educational as well as the environmental benefits of school recycling programs. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency s "WasteWise Program" is described, as are recycling and refurbishing possibilities for old furniture.
Designing Collaborative Learning Spaces Where Material Culture Meets Mobile Writing Processes. Bemer, Amanda; Moeller, Ryan; Ball, Cheryl Programmatic Perspectives; v1 , p139-166 ; Sep 2009
Discusses how a combination of movable furniture and mobile technology, including wireless access and laptops, can enhance student collaboration in group-based writing assignments. The lab included both desktop and laptop seating areas, so the authors created a modified worksite analysis designed to evaluate team collaboration in this new layout. These material changes in the lab allow students to configure the space according to their needs, offering them some measure of control over three crucial elements of successful collaboration: formality, presence, and confidentiality. Includes 31 references.
Breaking Down Universal Design.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v12 n7 , p29,30,32 ; Jul 2009
Advises on selecting educational furnishings that are flexible and can serve a variety of purposes and body types.
Renewable Selections.
American School and University; v81 n11 , p32-35 ; Jun 2009
Advises on assessing the sustainability of furniture by considering its materials and productions, the impact of its transportation and packaging, flexibility that will allow multiple uses, and recyclability at the end of its useful life.
Healthful Choices.
Hall, Julie American School and University; v81 n7 , p25,26,28 ; Mar 2009
Discusses school furniture with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Seeking environmentally certified products is recommended, and if none are available, understanding what the furniture is made of, how it might be refurbished or recycled, and its durabilility is essential.
A Seat at the Table.
Milshtein, Amy School Planning and Management; v48 n3 , p36,38,40,42-44 ; Mar 2009
Discusses coordinating deliveries, warranties, installation options, and bulk purchasing of school furnishings.
Behind the Scenes: Furnishing the Maintenance Department.
Milshtein, Amy
Notes that school facility departments are often outfitted with furniture that has been discarded from elsewhere on campus. The hazards of working on improper furniture are noted, as is the negative effects on the morale of employees forced to work in a decrepit and perhaps unsafe environment.
Furniture for the Future.
Caglar, Levent 21 Century Schools; v4 n1 , p26-29 ; 2009
Discusses the effect of furniture on health, the importance of dynamic sitting for health and learning, and the necessity for flexibility in classroom furnishings. Requirements for school furniture of the future, as well as new ways to specify and choose furniture are provided.
Furnishing for Sustainability.
Beitenhaus, Christine College Planning and Management; v11 n10 , pF12, F14,F16,F17 ; Oct 2008
Cites what materials are preferred for environmentally friendly furniture, the rising demand for it in higher education facilities, and the costs related to certifying and acquiring it.
Computer Furniture: Supporting the New Information Landscape.
Kessell, John School Planning and Management; v47 n10 , pF3,F4,F6 ; Oct 2008
Advises on selection of furniture that supports computer workstations. The article emphasize flexibility, breaking down that concept into options of mobility, physical arrangement, technical integration, multi-use, ergonomic design, and "green" construction materials and techniques, as well as repairability.
Furnishing for Community: The Impact of Cell Phones on Social Spaces.
Olenick, Mary College Planning and Management; v11 n10 , pF3,F4,F6 ; Oct 2008
Examines facility response to cell phone use, where traditional dedicated "destination" meeting spaces are more effective than casual meeting spaces, since students will typically network by mobile phone before meeting at an agreed-upon place.
School Furniture Decisions: It's Best to Do Your Homework.
Presberry, Lafay School Planning and Management; v47 n10 , pF18-F21 ; Oct 2008
Advises on school furniture selection, recommending manufacturers with a longer history in school furnishings, along with considerations for used furniture, warranties, shipping, and assembly.
Flexible Furniture.
Waldecker, Mark School Planning and Management; v47 n10 , pF8,F10,F12,F13 ; Oct 2008
Cites the visual and auditory advantages of movable student furnishings, as well as its ability to optimize space usage and reduce cleaning time. The virtues of movable walls are also discussed.
Money on Your Mind.
Hall, Julie American School and University; v81 n1 , p26,28,30,32 ; Sep 2008
Stresses the importance of ergonomically correct and flexible school furnishings, and discourages cutting costs by buying unsatisfactory products. An increase of furniture options from more manufacturers has increased competition, along with more discounting and financing options.
The Transformation of the Library.
Kollie, Ellen School Planning and Management; v47 n7 , p32-34 ; Jul 2008
Details elements of essential flexible library furnishings that accommodate evolving study and meeting habits, types of media that need to be stored, and desktop and laptop use.
A Second Chance.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v11 n7 , p37,38 ; Jul 2008
Discusses the possibilities of refurbishing existing campus furniture when renovating. The refurbished furniture may be used where it is, moved to another campus location, or donated to the community.
All Tricked Out.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v11 n5 , p52,54-57 ; May 2008
Describes flexible classroom furnishing solutions that are easily rearranged, lounge area furnishings that are conducive to collaboration, and environmental considerations in furniture construction and recycling.
Versatile Spaces.
Stewart, David American School and University; v80 n9 , p41,42,44,45 ; May 2008
Discusses the need for school furniture that can accommodate a variety of instructional styles, can be easily moved and stored to maximize floor space, is ergonomically correct, and emits no harmful chemicals.
Buying Furniture: Nine Ways to Go Green.
VanWyk, Linda School Business Affairs; v74 n4 , p33,34 ; Apr 2008
Details environmental issues for school furnishings, detailing durability, modularity, reconfigurability, low VOC output, recycled content, recyclability after use, translucence, packaging, and manufacturer certification.
The Furniture of Science.
Fickes, Michael School Planning and Management; v47 n2 , p30,32,34,36,38 ; Feb 2008
Reviews current furniture and workstation options for middle and high school science laboratories.
The Right Fit.
McGee, Tim American School and University; v80 n6 , p26,28,30 ; Feb 2008
Discusses the benefits and necessity of ergonomically correct school furniture, as well as the negative effects of poorly designed furniture. Features and components of a comfortable and flexible learning environment are addressed.
Are You Sitting Down?
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v11 n2 , p44-48 ; Feb 2008
Discusses outdoor furniture selection, including selection of materials appropriate to the environment, matching furniture to the landscape and surrounding architecture, sustainability, color, and accessories.
Swivel Seating in Large Lecture Theaters and Its Impact on Student Discussions and Learning.
Ogilvie, Craig A. Journal of College Science Teaching; v37 n3 , p50-56 ; Jan 2008
Well-designed university buildings and physical environments have a documented positive impact on student participation, engagement, and feelings of support and belonging. These factors are known to improve learning; however, it is hard to document the direct impact architecture has on student learning outcomes. This paper compares two different designs of remodeled, large lecture-theater designs: one with traditional tiered rows and one with swivel seating to facilitate face-to-face discussions during lectures and the impact these designs had on student learning. Both high- and low-performing students appear to have benefited from the swivel-seat discussions by the end of the semester, with potentially a larger benefit for stronger students.
TO ORDER:
http://learningcenter.nsta.org/product_detail.aspx?
An Open and Shut Case.
Alfieri, John School Planning and Management; v46 n12 , pF17-F19 ; Dec 2007
Discusses the advantages of drawer storage over shelving units for types of smaller and irregularly sized materials frequently found in schools.
Desisions...Decisions...School Furniture Choices Require Some Homework.
Presberry, Lafay School Planning and Management; v46 n12 , pF3,F4,F6 ; Dec 2007
Advises on school furniture selection, including deciding between new and used furniture, warrantees, bulk purchasing, durability, size, maintainability, and shipping configurations.
Furniture: Form and Function.
Richards, Jay College Planning and Management; v10 n12 , pF16-F19 ; Dec 2007
Reviews advances in school furniture design and testing, the necessity that furniture should serve multiple uses, and technology/furniture integration.
Do Your Homework on Cabinets and Casework.
Wiens, Janet School Planning and Management; v46 n12 , pF8,F10,F12 ; Dec 2007
Advises on selection of school casework, addressing location of use, customization, finishes, and environmentally conscious content and construction.
Appealing Spaces.
Dittoe, William; Porter, Nat American School and University; v80 n2 , p26,28,29,30,32 ; Oct 2007
Discusses the trend away from traditional school space design based on numbers of students, toward design based on achieving educational outcomes. Features of improved learning space and furnishings in classrooms, hallways, libraries, and residences are included.
Fixed-Asset Inventories: Why, What, How, and What Now?
Smith, Sheldon School Business Affairs; v73 n8 , p26,28 ; Sep 2007
Discusses the importance of accurate inventory of school equipment and furnishings, basic steps in the inventory process, desirable features of fixed-asset inventory software, and interpretation and use of inventory data.
Computers, Children & Repetitive Stress Injuries: The Effects of Computer Workstation Design on Children's Posture.
Maxwell, Lorraine E.; Laeser, Kathryn L. DesignShare; Aug 03, 2007
Although the use of computers in the classroom is increasing, little attention has been paid by educators, furniture manufacturers, or researchers to the ergonomic design issues of educational furniture for computer use. This brief article reports on two recent studies by Cornell researchers that demonstrated, using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), the effects of workstation design on children's posture. Overall, students responded favorably to a workstation which was fit to their anthropometric needs.
Stop Sitting Still This Instant.
School Planning and Management; v46 n6 , p43,44,46-49 ; Jun 2007
Decribes features of newer, ergonomically correct student seating. Soft plastic that flexes with student movement, contours that support the back, wrap-around designs, and desks rocking seats are reviewed.
Adjusting to Technology.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v79 n11 , p26,28,30,31 ; Jun 2007
Discusses school furniture selection in the light of the technology that will be used. Traveling laptops, the smaller footprint of current hardware, and wireless networks are reviewed.
Room to Grow.
Blankenbaker, Lauren American School and University; v79 n7 , p28,30,31 ; Mar 2007
Advises on dormitory furniture selection, including fabric selection, durability, installation services, and sustainability.
Our Bodies, Our Workstations.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v10 n2 , p26,28,29 ; Feb 2007
Reviews ergonomic considerations for furnishings where students use computers, citing the proliferation of laptops and monitors at the workspace. Five tips for ergonomic use of a laptop are included.
The Good Seat.
Milshtein, Amy School Planning and Management; v46 n2 , p48,50,52 ; Feb 2007
Reviews the consequences of muscoskeletal disorders incurred at the workplace, and advocates four ergonomic considerations in educational furnishing design and selection.
UC Berkeley Furnishes A Classical Campus Landscape.
College Planning and Management; v9 n12 , pF16-F19 ; Dec 2006
Describes the outdoor lighting fixtures, benches, recycling containers, picnic tables, bicycle racks, and drinking fountains used at the University of California, Berkeley. A sidebar refers to five other universities' furniture and equipment recycling programs.
The Big Comfy Couch.
Blankenbaker, Lauren College Planning and Management; v9 n12 , pF12,F13 ; Dec 2006
Discusses the trend toward the look and feel of "home" in higher education furnishings, as well as an evolution toward environmentally friendly suppliers.
Furniture Fabrics: What Should You Look For?
Dolan, Thomas School Planning and Management; v45 n12 , pF3,F4,F6,F8 ; Dec 2006
Considers durability, cost, cleanability, environmental impact, color, and design for educational upholstery products. A chart illustrating the relative importance of these characteristics is included.
Specifying Furnishings by Design.
Soto, Christine College Planning and Management; v9 n12 , pF3,F4,F6 ; Dec 2006
Advises on collaboration between users, administrators, and designers when specifying college furniture. Considerations for furnishings are organized under the categories of classrooms, lounges, residences, dining halls, and libraries.
Match Between School Furniture Dimensions and Children's Anthopometry.
Govali, M.; Boudolos, K. Applied Ergonomics; v37 n6 , p765-773 ; Nov 2006
The purpose of the study was to examine whether school furniture dimensions match children's anthropometry. Children aged 6–18 years (n=274), divided into 3 groups on the basis of the used furniture size, were subjected into anthropometric measurements (shoulder, elbow, knee and popliteal height, buttock-popliteal length and hip breadth). Combinational equations defined the acceptable furniture dimensions according to anthropometry and match percentages were computed, according to either the existing situation—where children use the size assigned for their grade—or assuming that they could use the most appropriate of the sizes available. Desk and seat height were bigger than the accepted limits for most children (81.8% and 71.5%, respectively), while seat depth was appropriate for only 38.7% of children. In conclusion, the assumption that children could use the most appropriate yet available size significantly improved the match, indicating that the limited provision of one size per cluster of grades does not accommodate the variability of anthropometry even among children of the same age.
Room for Adjustment.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v79 n2 , p29-31 ; Oct 2006
Discusses the benefits of school furniture that promotes movement for today's students, who are generally less active than those of the past. Separate chairs and desks, tables and desks that can adjust to standing height, and learning activities that require movement about the room are recommended.
Look, Mom! No Chairs!
Chaparro, Tiffany Scholastic Administrator; , p62 ; Aug 2006
Case study of Elton Hill Elementary School in Rochester, Minnesota, where students are encouraged to stretch, stand, kneel in a "chairless classroom" outfitted with laptops, video iPods, personalized whiteboards, adjustable podiums, and exercise balls in the place of chairs.
The Good Seat.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v9 n8 , p20-24 ; Aug 2006
Addresses ergonomically incorrect computer usage, which is typically not addressed at the college level. Statistics on muscoloskeletal disorders among college students are presented, along with major points of ergonomically correct seating and computer usage.
Furniture: Form and Function.
Richards, Jay School Planning and Management; v45 n8 , p29,30,32-34 ; Aug 2006
Describes how school furniture is adapting along with school design to help enable flexible space use, ergonomic environments, maintenance savings and technology integration.
Natural Selection.
Hall, Julie American School and University; v78 n11 , p30,31,34,35 ; Jun 2006
Advises on furniture selection, emphasizing careful consideration of how it will be used in the space, flexibility, durability and comfort of various materials, and use of furniture that will allow students to move.
What Does Green Mean for Classroom Furniture?
Roskos, Bob School Planning and Management; v45 n4 , pG10, G12 ; Apr 2006
Discusses definitions and requirements for recycled content in school furnishings, as well as "green" furniture s potential benefits to school indoor air quality.
Presidential Seal of Approval.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v9 n4 , p16,18 ; Apr 2006
Advises on the selection of furniture for administrative offices, emphasizing functionality and ergonomic arrangement in private offices. More expensive, upscale appearances should be reserved for areas most visible to the public, or in places where image counts most.
School Furniture on the Move.
Fickes, Michael School Planning and Management; v45 n2 , p20,22,24,26,28 ; Feb 2006
Describes advantages of mobile school furniture over built-in, especially in reconfiguring spaces for evolving educational programs. Mobile furniture now includes not only desks and chairs, but storage cabinets, demonstration tables, computer carts, and bookshelves. Custom designs are also available from some manufacturers.
Seat Work.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v78 n6 ; Feb 2006
Discusses selection of classroom furniture, taking into consideration desktop and laptop computer use. Suggestions for low- or no-cost adjustments that enhance ergonomics of existing furniture are included, as are recommendations for proper computer monitor and keyboard placement.
Do Your Homework on Cabinets and Casework.
Wiens, Janet College Planning and Management; v9 n2 , p18,20,22,24 ; Feb 2006
Advises on specifications for education cabinetry and casework, including load-bearing capabilities, imperviousness and maintainability of surfaces, security, aesthetics, and sustainable materials and construction practices.
One for You, One for Me.
Kollie, Ellen School Planning and Management; v44 n10 , p31-33 ; Oct 2005
Presents an interview with a Spokane administrator in which she describes recent furniture buying and refurbishing experiences, how they save money, and how they distribute the furniture fairly.
What's New in Library Furniture.
Kollie, Ellen College Planning and Management; v8 n10 , p34,36,37 ; Oct 2005
Connects the advent of wireless computing to evolutions in library furniture design and placement, with tables and carrels giving way to lounge-like environments.
High Class.
Waldecker, Mark American School and University; v78 n2 , p30,32,34 ; Oct 2005
Describes contributions that furniture can make to a positive learning environment, including flexibility, adjustibility, quiet during use, proper surfacing, and color.
Have a Seat.
Milshtein, Amy School Planning and Management; v44 n6 , p43-47 ; Jun 2005
Reviews the trend toward classroom desks that provide larger surfaces, electricity, and data ports in order to accommodate the technology that students often bring with them. Improved articulation to accommodate student sizes and shapes and is also being offered. Advice on writing a clear and effective RFP for furnishings is included.
School Furniture.
Dolan, Thomas School Planning and Management; v44 n3 , p33,34,36,37 ; Mar 2005
Recommends considerations of school furniture quality, vendor reliability, delivery, setup and installation, removal of packing and cleanup, maintenance and repair, the bid, the warranty, and what to do if the vendor’s promises are broken.
Furniture Contracts: The Art of the Deal.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v8 n3 , p28,30,31,32 ; Mar 2005
Discusses elements of a good RFP for furnishings. The inclusion of specifications, sample manufacturers model numbers, penalty clauses, warrants, and liabilities helps create a clear relationship between the institution and supplier.
Beyond the Seat.
Rydeen, James; Sorenson, Kim American School and University; v77 n7 , p29,30,32,33 ; Mar 2005
Discusses aesthetics, ergonomics, function, flexibility, durability, adjustability, quality, storability, maintenance, and safety in school furnishings. Also covered are color selection for various grade levels.
Fixing the Air in There.
Fickes, Michael College Planning and Management; v8 n1 , p78,79 ; Jan 2005
Describes off-gassing problems from new furnishings, particularly in residence halls, and what to specify in order to avoid them.
The Relationship between Seating Arrangement and Student Behavior in College Classrooms.
Kaya, Naz; Burgess, Brigitte Educational Facility Planner; v40 n2 , p11-15 ; 2005
Investigates environment-behavior relationships in college classrooms and assesses how students' territoriality and perceptions of social interaction vary according to different seating arrangements. Results revealed that rows of tablet-arm chairs provided the most personal space and students indicated that they could easily spread out and define their own space with this arrangement. The cluster arrangement promoted the most social interaction, followed by the U- shaped arrangement. Includes 12 references.
Back Pain in School Children--Where to from Here?
Trevelyan, F.; Legg, S. Applied Ergonomics; v37 n1 , p45-54 ; 2005
Back pain is now recognised to occur early in childhood and is associated with high prevalence rates when estimated by survey. This review paper considers the risk factors associated with back pain in children aged 11–14 years, and particularly those present in a school setting. The risk factors most significantly associated with back pain are primarily characteristics of the individual with less strong associations with factors present in the school environment. The majority of intervention studies undertaken in a school setting have focussed on the effect of school furniture on posture and comfort and were of short-term duration. There is a need for further research in order to achieve a better understanding of the risk factors present in a school environment and to address ways to reduce the currently recognised perceived problem of back pain among school children. A strategy for an evidence-based longitudinal intervention study is proposed, with the content outlined under the headings: policy, school equipment and furniture, individual and family.
TO ORDER:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16137636
Doing Heavy Duty.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v77 n4 , p25-27 ; Dec 2004
Discusses durability issues with campus furniture, how it is tested for durability in a laboratory, and how it is rated for the same through actual use.
We'd Like to Make Examples of Your Wiggly, Squirming Students and Encourage Everyone to Copy Them.
Reckford, Claudius School Planning and Management; v43 n12 , pF7-F9 ; Dec 2004
Cites research indicating that movement encourages learning, while describing "dynamic sitting" positions, the ways that typical school chairs inhibit circulation, breathing, and movement. A two-step process of correctly adjusting student chair and desk height is detailed.
Residence Hall Furniture: Bland and Inflexible Don't Work.
Wiens, Janet College Planning and Management; v7 n12 , pRL6-RL7 ; Dec 2004
Discusses trends in residence hall furniture toward a residential look, with flexible arrangeability, stylish lines, full upholstery, and sustainably-derived materials.
Green Wood for Residence Hall Furniture.
Fickes, Michael College Planning and Management; v7 n10 , p33-36 ; Oct 2004
Emphasizes the selection of durable, solid wood furniture created from sustainable sources over particle board or other cheaper, but less environmentally sensitive products. The short life expectancy of the cheaper products will cost more in the long run.
Distributing Furniture "Fair and Square" in Your District.
Kollie, Ellen School Planning and Management; v43 n10 , p22,24-27 ; Oct 2004
Describes several school systems' methods for equitable furniture distribution, each representing an effort to objectively prioritize replacements within a given budget.
The Furniture Equation.
Chambers, Jeffrey D. American School and University; v76 n11 , pFF4-FF7 ; Jun 2004
Advises on sizes and configurations of workstation and classroom furnishings to accommodate current technology-infused curricula. For all programs, flexibility and expandibility are recommended.
Sitting Target.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v76 n11 , pFF8,FF11-FF13 ; Jun 2004
Advises on selection of furniture that is ergonomically correct and arrangeable for different learning groups.
Have a Seat.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v7 n6 , p56,58,60-63 ; Jun 2004
Describes the inadequacy of the traditional tablet arm classroom chair, which lacks space and connectivity for the equipment students currently bring to class. Desks with larger tablets and computer connections are available, as are narrow tables which occupy a similar amount of front-to-back classroom space. Larger tables with fold-down permanent computer storage are also described.
Universal Furniture.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v7 n4 , p25,26,28 ; Apr 2004
Describes attributes of standard furnishings that help the mobility impaired.
School Furniture Industry Tries to Get Its Desks in a Row.
Carroll, Catherine A. Education Week; , p8 ; Mar 10, 2004
Discusses how tight education budgets and corporate mergers are buffeting the school furniture industry. Ergonomics has also come to the forefront in classroom furniture. [Free subscriber registration is required.]
School Furniture and the User Population: an Anthropometric Perspective
Milanese, S.; Grimmer , K. Ergonomics; v47 n4 , p416 - 426 ; Mar 2004
The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between reported spinal symptoms in an adolescent student population, and the match between their individual anthropometric dimensions and their school furniture. The hypothesis was that students who were too large or too small for their school furniture, i.e. with anthropometric measurements furthest from the group whose anthropometry was the 'best fit' with the furniture, would have a higher frequency of reported symptoms. From data collected from 1269 schoolchildren, reported spinal symptoms and anthropometric measures were examined. Stature measures were divided into quartiles. A standard government issue school chair and desk was measured and the anthropometric quartile of the population having the 'best fit' with the furniture was identified using standard ergonomics recommendations. Odds ratios were calculated for spinal symptoms reported within each quartile group. The first quartile group (the smallest students) was identified as having the 'best fit' with the school furniture. An overall higher odds of reporting low back pain was noted in students with anthropometric dimensions in the fourth quartile (the tallest students). While it is acknowledged that there is a multifactorial nature of causality of adolescent spinal symptoms, it is contended that the degree of mis-match between child anthropometry and school furniture set-up should be further examined as a strong and plausible associate of adolescent low back pain. [Authors' abstract]
TO ORDER:
http://www.mendeley.com/research/school-furniture-user-population-anthropometric-perspective/
Flexible Furnishing.
Rittner-Heir, Robbin M. School Planning and Management; v43 n2 , p40,42,44,46 ; Feb 2004
Describes flexible and movable furnishings which can be reconfigured to serve a variety of learning arrangements.
Make a Face.
Strahle, Julie American School and University; v76 n6 , p48,50-54 ; Feb 2004
Advises on selection of furniture that offers variety and flexibility, with styling that reflects the identity of the room and institution.
The Splashy New Student Union Furniture.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v7 n2 , p42,44,46 ; Feb 2004
Presents current style preferences and life expectancies for common area furnishings.
Classroom Posture and Self-reported Back and Neck Pain in Schoolchildren.
Murphy, Sam; Buckle, Peter; Stubbs, David Applied Ergonomics; v35 n2 , 113-120 ; 2004
Reports on research considering the sitting postures of 66 11-14 year-old schoolchildren in the classroom. The sitting postures were recorded in normal lessons using the Portable Ergonomic Observation Method (PEO). The study found significant associations between flexed postures and low back pain. Static postures and neck and upper back pain were also associated. Poorly designed furniture and mismatches between student size and furniture were noted. [An adapted version of this research is available here: http://www.informedesign.umn.edu/Rs_detail.aspx?rsId=1832 ]
TO ORDER:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003687004000055
Classroom Furniture Dimensions and Anthropometric Measures in Primary School.
Panagiotopoulou, Georgia; Christoulas, Kosmas; Papanckolaou, Anthoula; Mandroukas, Konstantinos. Applied Ergonomics; v35 n2 , p121-128 ; 2004
Describes research that identified a mismatch between 180 Greek elementary students' body dimensions and the classroom furniture available to them. The chairs were too high and too deep, and desks were also too high for the pupils. This situation had a negative effects on the sitting posture of the children especially when reading and writing. The following human body dimensions were measured: stature, elbow height, shoulder height, upper arm length, knee height, popliteal height and buttock popliteal length. In addition, the dimensions were measured for four different types of chairs and five types of desks prevalent in classrooms. Finally, the student measurements and the furniture dimensions were compared in order to identify any incompatibility between them.
TO ORDER:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003687004000067
Promoting Posture.
American School and University; v76 n4 , p39-40 ; Dec 2003
Summarizes the results of research that indicates the best chair and desk configurations for students. Proper degrees of inclination of the backrest, seat and desk are discussed, along with recommended seat shapes.
Students Can Help Select Residence Hall Furniture When the Process is Well-Managed.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v6 n10 , p22,24 ; Oct 2003
Suggests ways to involve students in the selection of residence hall furniture without unduly slowing the process. Furniture fairs where vendors display their goods to students are empasized as an effective and economical means of obtaining student input.
TO ORDER:
01/10/2004 Not available online. cet.
The Challenge of Computer Furniture.
Dolan, Thomas G. School Planning and Management; v42 n8 , p22,24,26-28 ; Aug 2003
Explains that classrooms and school furniture were built for a different era and often do not have sufficient power for technology, discussing what is needed to support modern technology in education. One solution involves modular cabling and furniture that is capable of being rearranged. Currently, there are no comprehensive standards from which schools can base their decisions about computer environments for children.
Revision of the Design of a Standard for the Dimensions of School Furniture
Molenbroek, JFM; Kroon-Ramaekers, YMT; Snijders, CJ Ergonomics; v46 n7 , p681 - 694 ; Jun 2003
In this study an anthropometric design process was followed. The aim was to improve the fit of school furniture sizes for European children. It was demonstrated statistically that the draft of a European standard does not cover the target population. No literature on design criteria for sizes exists, and in practice it is common to calculate the fit for only the mean values (P50). The calculations reported here used body dimensions of Dutch children, measured by the authors' Department, and used data from German and British national standards. A design process was followed that contains several steps, including: Target group, Anthropometric model and Percentage exclusion. The criteria developed in this study are (1) a fit on the basis of 1% exclusion (P1 or P99), and (2) a prescription based on popliteal height. Based on this new approach it was concluded that prescription of a set size should be based on popliteal height rather than body height. The drafted standard, Pren 1729, can be improved with this approach. A European standard for school furniture should include the exception that for Dutch children an extra large size is required. [Authors' abstract]
TO ORDER:
http://www.mendeley.com/research/revision-design-standard-dimensions-school-furniture/
Dimensions of Green.
Bloech, Henning M. American School and University; v75 n9 , p56-59 ; May 2003
Discusses how schools can benefit by establishing sustainable purchasing practices for furniture and furnishings. Describes the elements of sustainable purchasing (reduce, reuse, recycle; ingredients/contents; emissions/indoor air quality; and corporate guidelines), and the added vigilance required of purchasing agents.
Picking the Right Pieces.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v75 n9 , p50-55 ; May 2003
Discusses the many factors schools and universities should consider when purchasing furniture, including its impact on the learning environment.
Seats of Productivity.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v75 n8 , p36-41 ; Apr 2003
Discusses key factors to consider when selecting furniture for offices and other administrative areas, including flexibility, ergonomics, aesthetics, and cost. Includes a sidebar on dealing with bulky wiring at computer workstations.
Aim for Wow-ability when Selecting Student Center Furniture.
Payne, Jill M. College Planning and Management; v6 n4 , p28-30 ; Apr 2003
Advises colleges to keep in mind several qualities when purchasing furniture for student centers: durability, cleanability, repairability, flexibility, storability, credibility, sustainability, comfort, affordability, and "wowability."
New Directions in School Furnishings.
Roskos, Bob School Planning and Management; v42 n4 , p31-34 ; Apr 2003
Describes trends in school furniture design, including emphasis on ergonomics, mobility, accommodation of technology, and the use of private sector providers to plan and implement the furniture, fixtures, and equipment portion of school construction budgets.
Take My Chair (Please): Experts Say Students Learn More If They Are Comfortable, But Few Colleges Listen
Bartlett, Thomas The Chronicle of Higher Education; v49 n26 , A36-A38 ; Mar 07, 2003
Experts on classroom design argue that even the most fascinating lecture or stimulating discussion can be undermined by a bad classroom where temperature, lighting, acoustics, and furniture are inadequate. Experts say it's time colleges finally realized the pedagogical value of a comfortable chair, the ability to see the blackboard, hear the teacher, etc.
Keeping up Appearances.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v75 n6 , p42-48 ; Feb 2003
Discusses the issues colleges and universities face when choosing furniture for residence halls, including aesthetics, durability, student expectations, technology-friendliness, and encouragement of community.
Furnishing an Auditorium.
Rittner-Heir, Robbin M. School Planning and Management; v42 n2 , p49-51 ; Feb 2003
Discusses the options in furnishings for school auditoriums and provides tips for decision-making.
A Positive Environment.
Rydeen, James; Erickson, Paul American School and University; v75 n2 , p36-39 ; Oct 2002
Explores planning and design issues that should be considered when selecting school furniture, fixtures, and equipment, including aesthetics, function, and flexibility.
Selecting the Best Furniture for Your Classroom.
Troup, Wilson College Planning and Management; v5 n10 , p25-26 ; Oct 2002
Offers advice on furnishing a technology classroom, asserting that the overriding selection criteria must be quality. This is defined as furniture that functions smoothly and looks attractive with regular maintenance for up to two decades. Addresses eye appeal, versatility versus performance, and durability. A sidebar also discusses ergonomics and cable management.
Egonomic Educational Furniture.
School Planning and Management; v41 n8 , p24-30 ; Aug 2002
Presents an interview with Richard Holbrook, designer of classroom furniture, on the "whys" and "hows" of ergonomic school furnishings.
Residence Hall Furniture: What's on the Horizon.
Wiens, Janet College Planning and Management; v5 n8 , p24-26 ; Aug 2002
Describes what leading manufacturers are saying about the future of residence hall furniture design, explaining that fabrics, frames, colors, materials, and other factors are combining to give college officials numerous choices.
High School Locker Bays.
Trotsky, George School Planning and Management; v41 n7 , p20-21 ; Jul 2002
Discusses planning, specification, and installation of student lockers, asserting that for the two basic types of lockers, corridor student lockers and athletic lockers, design considerations must focus on space requirements and ease of supervision. Discusses centralized versus decentralized configuration and locker size and type. Includes a chart of common dressing room locker types and sizes.
Computer Furniture/Workstations: How Can We Keep Our Children from Being at Risk?
School Planning and Management; v41 n6 , p74-75 ; Jun 2002
Presents an interview with Dr. Lorraine Maxwell, an expert in human-environment relations, about important comfort and health issues to consider when looking at the furniture used as computer workstations in U.S. schools.
Ergonomics: A Commonsense Activity That Can Save Schools Money.
Fleer, Paul; Gauthier-Green, Erin School Business Affairs; v68 n6 , p24-30 ; Jun 2002
Describes the use of ergonomics to reduce work-related
musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel
syndrome that often effect custodians, foodservice workers, maintenance personnel, and computer users. Describes ergonomics and how to identify ergonomic
problems, conduct a job hazard analysis, and develop solutions. Also lists
common ergonomic errors in schools. Provides an ergonomic checklist for
employees working on computers.
Accessorizing the Classroom.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v74 n10 , p35-37 ; Jun 2002
Describes how, as is the case with the desks they purchase, schools should choose other furnishings such as computer workstations by balancing aesthetics, architects' recommendations, staff preferences, durability, flexibility, and cost.
Purchasing School Furnishings.
Rittner-Heir, Robbin M. School Planning and Management; v41 n5 , p37-39 ; May 2002
Describes how school districts in Jefferson County, Kentucky; Long Island, New York; and central Pennsylvania buy and replace school furniture. Addresses getting quantity discounts and the importance of quality and durability. Includes a sidebar on the availability of volume discounts from the Association of Educational Purchasing Agencies.
Furnished with Class.
Hale, Olivia American School and University; v74 n8 , p34-37 ; Apr 2002
Provides advice on purchasing classroom furniture at all educational levels, discussing the balance between comfort, aesthetics, and durability that must be struck depending on a school or college's particular needs. Also touches on features to look for in furniture for various grade levels.
Spit and Polish for Furniture Maintenance?
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v5 n4 , p30,32-33 ; Apr 2002
Offers tips from furniture manufacturers to keep classroom furniture looking good for many years: (1) select quality furniture(2) pay careful attention to the surface material(3) stack it and roll it (ease of portability and storage); (4) clean it properly; and (5) choose good a partner in maintenance.
Making the Grade.
Swanquist, Barry American School and University; v74 n6 , p38,40,42 ; Feb 2002
Discusses the need for furniture in college residence halls to be flexible, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and able to support technology. Explores what students prefer, customizing student space, and furniture finishes.
Comfort with Computers in the Library.
Agati, Joseph College Planning and Management; v5 n1 , p40-41 ; Jan 2002
Sets forth a list of do's and don't's when integrating aesthetics, functionality, and technology into college library computer workstation furniture. The article discusses workstation access for both portable computer users and for staff, whose needs involve desktop computers that are possibly networked with printers and other peripherals.
The Impact of Change in Teaching and Learning on Furniture and the Learning Environment.
Cornell, Paul New Directions for Teaching and Learning; n92 , p33-42 ; Winter 2002
Explores ways in which furniture is at the heart of the flexibility needed to use new approaches to teaching and learning, and to provide for the comfort of learners of different ages and different physical needs.
Arranging the Classroom with an Eye (and Ear) to Students with ADHD.
Carbone, Eric Teaching Exceptional Children; v34 n2 , p72-82 ; Nov-Dec 2001
Discusses arrangement of the classrooms furnishings, equipment, activity areas, and supplies to address the ADHD student's issues with hyperactivity, impulsivity, distractibility, and disorganization.
Where Students Learn.
Rush, Richard D. American School and University; v74 n3 , p360-62 ; Nov 2001
Discusses the challenges that schools face in keeping pace with rapidly changing technology in the school environment. Explores the spaces, furnishings, and planning and design issues that must be considered to successfully integrate computers into learning environments.
Playing to a Larger Crowd.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v74 n2 , p48-50 ; Oct 2001
Examines the decision-making process for selecting auditorium seating during facility planning. Considerations include durability, outside community use, space flexibility, and comfort needs.
Sitting Pretty.
Metzger, Edward A. School Planning and Management; v40 n7 , p37-39 ; Jul 2001
Discusses why a properly fitting office chair is an important influence on productivity and health. Features to look for in chair selection, such as quality and adjustability, are highlighted, as are tips for evaluating and choosing a manufacturer.
School Daze.
Schneider, Jay W. School Construction News; v4 n5 , p20-22 ; Jul-Aug 2001
Explores how not to be overwhelmed by the process of selecting furniture, fixtures, and equipment or by the task of moving it all from one school to another when getting a new school ready for students and staff.
Musical Chairs.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v73 n9 , p58,60 ; May 2001
Examines Clark County Nevada school district's furniture purchasing strategy to buy classroom furniture that will last, is flexible, and is appropriate for the students using it. Replacing furniture with the least disruption to their schools' routine is highlighted.
Do Seating Arrangements and Assignments=Classroom Management?
Dunne, Diane Weaver Education World; Apr 04, 2001
Explores comments from classroom management experts and experienced educators about decisions teachers make on whether students will be allowed to select their own seats and about the impact on classroom discipline and effectiveness of instruction created by the physical arrangement of the classroom.
The New Wave of Classroom Furniture.
Przyborowski, Danielle College Planning and Management; v4 n4 , p44,46,48 ; Apr 2001
Discusses why specialized classrooms outfitted with high-quality furniture can lure students and professors to a college or university. Issues concerning atmospherics, comfort, and the ability of furniture to adapt to educational technology are examined as is a discussion on the need to keep classrooms abreast of the technology curve.
Buyers' Guide & Who's Who Directory, 2001-02.
American School and University; v73 n7 , p1- ; Mar 2001
Presents a comprehensive directory supplies and products for businesses and educational facilities including contact information. Also contained are an alphabetical list of educational facility design professionals (by region), a list of educational associations, and a calendar of major education trade shows.
Designing the Electronic Classroom: Applying Learning Theory and Ergonomic Design Principles
Library Hi Tech; v19 n1 , p77 - 87 ; Mar 2001
This article applies learning theory and ergonomic principles to the design of effective learning environments for library instruction. It discusses features of electronic classroom ergonomics, including the ergonomics of the physical space, environmental factors, and the workstations. Includes classroom layouts.
TO ORDER:
http://www.emeraldinsight.com/
School Construction Management: Expert Administrators Speak.
Fickes, Michael School Planning and Management; v40 n3 , p49-50 ; Mar 2001
Presents expert opinion on school construction management communication concerning educational needs, obtaining consensus among diverse groups, and envisioning what schools must offer in the future. Why furniture issues are also important is highlighted.
Helpful Hints for Lounge Furniture.
Przyborowski, Danielle College Planning and Management; v4 n3 , p36,38 ; Mar 2001
Presents advice from interior designers on purchasing, arranging, and maintaining lounge furniture in educational facilities.
High-Tech Comfort.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v73 n6 , p26,28,30 ; Feb 2001
Explains why the influx of computers into classrooms means that schools need to pay more attention to ergonomic furnishings. The health risks of poorly designed furniture are discussed as are the kinds of furniture that work best for computer use.
Take a Seat -- In the Library.
College Planning and Management; v4 n1 , p65-66 ; Jan 2001
Offers comments from an interior designer about purchasing school library furniture. Comments cover such areas as client preference, the most important factors to consider when buying furniture, factors administrators should consider when choosing a library furniture supplier, wire management, and library floor planning that administrators can use when designing space.
The Furniture of Science.
Fickes, Michael School Planning and Management; v40 n1 , p71-73 ; Jan 2001
Examines how the introduction of new technology has spawned the emergence of new types of furniture, furnishings, and classroom design to support high school science instruction. The challenges imposed by the Americans with Disabilities Act on school science labs are highlighted.
An Open Door.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v73 n4 , p23-25 ; Dec 2000
Discusses how lockers can have a significant impact on the school environment and ways of making the impact a positive one. An example of a lockerless school is highlighted.
Furniture Faces the Future.
Rittner-Heir, Robbin M. School Planning and Management; v39 n11 , p43-47 ; Nov 2000
Discusses how changes in the educational tools used and the way children are taught have made classroom furniture of the past nearly obsolete. Furniture options for flexibility and buying decisions in tight budgets are addressed, including buying over the Internet. Questions to ask for buying the right furniture for school districts are highlighted.
Connected and Comfortable.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v73 n2 , p35-36,38 ; Oct 2000
Discusses school furniture flexibility that can accommodate changing instructional styles, a diverse student characteristics, and classroom technology demands. Characteristics to look for that can enhance a chair s ergonomics are highlighted along with tips for better furniture budgeting.
Buy Now, Buy Later.
Sturgeon, Julie College Planning and Management; v3 n6 , p41-42 ; Jun 2000
Explores the benefits of multi-year bid contracting of university furniture contracts and offers tips on how to be successful at this approach. Areas covered include careful development of specifications, establishing clear ground rules for pricing and contractual escape routes, and comprehensive and careful bid contract writing.
Trends in Interior Environments
Hovey, Robyn College Planning and Management; v3 n5 , p37-38 ; May 2000
Examines how an understanding of interior design trends can help planners address their present and future furniture needs. Examines how new types of construction and their associated concerns are requiring new approaches from the facility designers and manufacturers of product solutions.
Engaged Learning.
McDonough, James American School and University; v72 n9 , p60,63-64 ; May 2000
Notes that research on how students learn and retain knowledge is changing not only how teachers teach, but also how facilities planners and architects design a classroom’s shape, size, organization, and furnishings. Suggests that classrooms need to be flexible and dynamic, must integrate new technologies, must be large enough to accommodate transformation, and must include furnishings that move easily and convert from one use to another.
Furniture Is Key to Classroom Design.
Oates, Rita School Planning and Management; v39 n5 , p54-57 ; May 2000
Explains how flexibility and allowing for furniture to be rearranged are essential in creating a better learning environment. The benefits of involving the users in furniture selection and placement and who should make the final decisions are addressed.
Chalkboards Bite the Dust.
Rittner-Heir, Robbin M. School Planning and Management; v39 n4 , p10-11 ; Apr 2000
This looks at how the new display technologies are helping teachers and students. Chalkboards are being replaced by white boards and dry erase markers, and electronic whiteboards capable of operating as a touch-sensitive computer monitor or large television screen.
Modern Classrooms See Chalkboards Left in the Dust.
Mullan, Meghan Education Week; v19 n17 , p6 ; Jan 12, 2000
Examines the benefits of using dry-erase boards in elementary school classrooms in student health and teaching efficiency. Chalkboard and dry-erase surfaces are compared. [Free subscriber registration is required.]
"Oh the Things I Learned on Mulberry Street".
Fickes, Michael College Planning and Management; v3 n1 , p55-57 ; Jan 2000
Discusses how school furniture is evolving to meet the needs of the changing designs of college and university libraries. Advice is offered on trimming the furniture, finishes, and equipment costs of using high-end furniture.
Take a Seat.
Grant, Deborah R. American School and University; v72 n4 , p26, 28-29 ; Dec 1999
Examines the factors involved in purchasing school furnishings that will help ensure its long-time use, safety, and ability to resist abuse. Cost and safety factors discussed include resisting trendy colors to reduce cost in furniture matching, managing computer and office wiring for safety, considering ergonomics in the purchasing decision, and selecting economic delivery options.
The Effect of Computer Workstation Design on Student Posture and Computer Task Performance.
Laeser, Katherine; Maxwell, Lorraine Design Share; Dec 1999
A study by Cornell researchers looking at the ergonomic appropriateness of computer workstations in school facilities for children grades 3-5 revealed that the schools had computer-equipped classrooms in which students assumed postures associated with high risk for the development of musculoskeletal disorders.
Bits, Bytes, and Backaches.
Sturgeon, Julie School Planning and Management; v38 n11 , p40-43 ; Nov 1999
Examines the potential problems facing educational institutions from the impact of computer use, ergonomics, and physical injuries. Paying attention to ergonomics and solutions through proper furniture buying are discussed. Tips to help institutions reduce the possibility of children suffering painful and possibly disabling injuries are highlighted.
Working Safe and Feeling Fine.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v2 n10 , p35-36 ; Oct 1999
Discusses the problem of repetitive stress disorders in the administrative workplace and shares some quick fixes to aid ergonomics. Some thoughts on the ergonomics of office chairs are provided as is the use of professional guidance in furniture purchasing.
Form and Function.
White, Christopher American School and University; v72 n2 , p28,30,33 ; Oct 1999
Discusses ways of determining furniture requirements, specifications, and preferences early enough in new school planning to enhance school design. Planning for changes in the educational environment, establishing needs and expectations, budgeting, and breaking bids into multiple packages for specific school areas are explored.
Home Away from Home.
Kennedy, Mike American School and University; v72 n1 , p58a-58b,58d ; Sep 1999
Reports on techniques that colleges and universities are implementing in an effort to make their residence halls more like a home, less like an institution. Techniques discussed include careful selection of furniture and furnishings. Also explores efforts necessary to accommodate the increased use of computers and ways to balance cost and comfort.
Some Considerations in Choosing Library Furnishings
Murphy, Tish Public Libraries; v38 n4 , p244-26 ; Jul-Aug 1999
A library-furnishings consultant explains important factors to keep in mind when selecting furnishings:
demographics; dimensions and budgets; how the interior should look (standard versus customized furnishings and best
materials); and electrical considerations (wire management and safe electrical connections).
Furniture for the Future.
Roskos, Bob College Planning and Management; v2 n7 ; Jul 1999
Discusses key planning tips prior to purchasing computer lab furniture to help ensure that the furniture is stylish yet able to deliver efficient, cost-effective technology support. One school's solutions to wire management and finding furniture that was durable, easy to maintain, and competitively priced are discussed.
Reserving Space.
Greischar, Kevin American School and University; v71 n9 , p36,38 ; May 1999
Presents the criteria schools can use to evaluate furniture and casework in K-12 educational spaces. Tips include keeping furniture or casework flexible in its placement, making color schemes simple, and trying to eliminate too much built-in casework for administrative stations and offices.
Children's Behaviour and the Design of School Furniture.
Knight,Grenville; Noyes, Jan Ergonomics; v42 n5 , p.747-760 ; May 1999
Compares the effects on children's behaviour and sitting position of traditional classroom furniture with a recently designed chair known as 'Chair 2000' and associated tables. It was found that children showed a modest but significant improvement in on-task behaviour and a marked change in sitting positions following the introduction of the newly-designed furniture. However, these benefits need to be considered in the light of polarized opinion for and against the new furniture, and a high level of reported incidence of back pain significantly related to the frequency of non-standard sitting. In the absence of radically redesigned furniture, it is suggested that children should be given more choice in their seating, and better guidance should be given to individuals involved in education in order to inform their decision-making about classroom furniture and the postural, anthropometric and orthopaedic aspects of sitting and related activities. [Authors' abstract]
TO ORDER:
http://www.informaworld.com/smpp/content~content=a713808274~db=all
Bleacher Safety: What Do We Look For? What Can We Do?
IEA Environmental Consultant; , p1, 2 ; Spring 1999
Discusses safety issues surrounding aging bleacher systems, highlighting the following three primary safety considerations: space between seats and footboards; guardrails; and the structural provisions of the 1997 Uniform Building Code. Tips for bleacher accident prevention assessment and excerpts from federal and Minnesota legislation on bleacher standards are provided.
Consider Workplace Needs When Purchasing Office Furniture.
Burton, Bob College Planning and Management; v2 n1 , p60-61 ; Jan 1999
Discusses how to consider workplace needs when buying furniture. Stresses the importance of planning, tying the furniture purchasing into the strategic business, considering alternatives to furniture ownership, evaluating employee health and safety, and understanding any added value in buying from a specific dealer/manufacturer.
Children, Computers, and School Furniture
Maxwell, Lorraine E. Educational Facility Planner; v35 n2 , p5-7 ; 1999
Discusses the rise of posture related discomfort and injury in children
using computers in their classrooms and explores the research in the
area. It recommends greater effort in encouraging school furniture
manufacturers to create ergonomically appropriate computer
workstations. Advice on what children can do to lessen musculoskeletal
discomfort concludes the article.
Comparative Study of Two Different Kinds of School Furniture among Children.
Troussier, B; Tesnier, C; Fauconnier, J; Grison, J; Juvin, R; Phelip, X. Ergonomics; v42 n3 , p516-526 ; 1999
Evaluates two different kinds of furniture for schoolchildren in a real-life environment and on a long-term basis. The study was carried out with 263 children aged from 8 to 11 years after 4 or 5 years of using the same school furniture. Two groups were selected according to the kind of furniture. Pupils answered a questionnaire focusing on back pain and subjective perception of the school furniture. No significant differences were found concerning the prevalence of back pain among the two groups, but writing position and chair height of ergonomically designed furniture was preferred by the students. [An adapted version of this research is available here: http://www.informedesign.umn.edu/Rs_detail.aspx?rsId=1203 ]
Bleacher Comforts.
Scandrett, Donald G. Athletic Business; v22 n12 , p86-90,92,94 ; Dec 1998
Examines the planning issues when replacing telescoping bleacher units
and for analyzing seating options. It addresses the importance of
complying with local building codes, and the considerations on
maintenance following installation.
Wire Wise.
Swanquist, Barry American School and University; v71 n4 , p32, 34 ; Dec 1998
Discusses how today's technology is encouraging schools to invest in furnishings that are adaptable to computer use and telecommunications access. Issues concerning modularity, wiring management, ergonomics, durability, price, and aesthetics are explored.
Five Ways To Create More Productive Front Office Space.
American Society of Interior Designers School Planning and Management; v37 n11 , p38-39 ; Nov 1998
Presents survey results on how furniture and interior design can affect school district staff's productivity. Productivity experts highlight five key factors for creating and maintaining productive and efficient offices.
Take a Seat, Please.
Milshtein, Amy College Planning and Management; v1 n6 , p61-63 ; Nov 1998
Offers decision making tips when choosing auditorium seating for both
indoor and outdoor use. Tips for outdoor seating include deciding on
weather-resistant options, permanent or temporary bleachers, seating
materials, colors, and ease of maintenance. Indoor seating selection tips
include overall comfort and quietness, their adaptive features to allow for
writing and computer use, and upholstery.
The Changing College Classroom.
Paulien, Daniel K. Facilities Manager; v 14 n6 , p24-27, 30 ; Nov-Dec 1998
Describes the ways in which college classrooms are changing as a result of technology, furnishings, and educational needs requiring more space and different classroom design concepts. Why the traditional tablet armchair classroom is becoming unpopular is explained.
Cyber Space - with Elbow Room.
Milshtein, Amy School Planning and Management; V37 n10 , p25-27 ; Oct 1998
Describes how the Hammond School District (Indiana) solved the problem of fitting the correct amount of space needed for students, teachers, and technology. It examines the district's solutions for furniture needs through the use of full-scale mockups of classroom arrangements, and the wiring, power needs, and lighting.
Make Your Desk a Timesaver
McIntosh, Margaret Instructor; v106 n1 , p74-75 ; Sep 1998
This article describes six strategies for teachers to use in organizing their desks and the space around them to
make them more efficient and attractive.
Plugged In to Comfort.
Spurgeon, Mark S.; And Others American School and University; v71 n1 , p46a-46b,46d ; Sep 1998
Explains how technology will influence classroom design and furniture selection in today's college facilities. Ergonomic and efficiency considerations are discussed as are furnishings for specialized areas such as computer labs. Final comments address dormitory rooms and the flexibility of room furniture layout and the inclusion of telecommunications capabilities.
Ergonomics: Injury Protection You Can Afford.
Sturgeon, Julie School Planning and Management; v37 n8 , p19-20,22-23 ; Aug 1998
Examines the physical health risks attributed to poor furniture and equipment ergonomics and ways to help assure that furniture and equipment purchases and practices are ergonomically sound. Cautionary advice includes being wary of marketing hype that a company's furniture is ergonomically set, and acquire adjustable furniture and encourage students to manipulate them to a proper fit.
Narrowing Your Seating Options.
Vukovic, Vladimir College Planning and Management; v1 n4 , p51-52,54 ; Jul 1998
Offers guidance on selecting appropriate seating furniture for outdoor
facilities, arenas, auditoriums, and lecture rooms. Considerations such
as beam mounting systems to facilitate laptop computers and chair
durability and ergonomics are discussed as are tips for choosing a seat
re-manufacturing company.
A Firm Fit.
Diehl, Larry W.; And Others American School and University; v70 n9 , p52-54 ; May 1998
Explains how to choose classroom furniture that complements the teaching methodology and fits classroom configurations and needs. Purchasing considerations beyond quality, price, and service are highlighted and include standardizing the products being purchased, carefully choosing fabrics, and considering aesthetics.
How To Organize Technology Areas.
Fickes, Michael College Planning and Management; v1 n3 , p47-48,52 ; May 1998
Highlights three ways a college or university can organize its technology
areas to maximize comfort and save space. Examples are provided on
controlling equipment sprawl through thoughtful workstation
development, designing computer rooms for flexibility and effective cable
management, and emulating business setups that are work-flow efficient
and ergonomic.
Ergonomics: The Forgotten Variable
Fitterman, L. Jeffrey Technology Connection; v5 n3 , p7, 27-29 ; May-Jun 1998
Defines ergonomics and discusses design and environmental considerations. Suggests work-space requirements for: tables, chairs, monitor height, ambient noise and light, electricity, and environmental hazards. Includes sources for additional information related to ergonomic design.
Right-sizing for Tikes.
Jackson, Lisa M. School Planning and Management; v37 n5 , p59-61 ; May 1998
Describes the design process of the nation's largest public preschool noted for its classroom flexibility, an environment suited for the needs and safety of children, ample play space, community inclusiveness, and building durability and efficiency. It discusses the right-sizing of corridors and rooms, furniture kits to accommodate differing teaching styles and activities, use of colors and patterns, and security.
Four Easels, Five Sand Tables, and a Billion Blocks: Setting Up an Early Childhood Classroom
Johnston, Callum B. Dimensions of Early Childhood; v26 n2 , p24-27 ; Spring 1998
Offers suggestions for selecting appropriate classroom materials and designing an early-childhood classroom in
which children learn through play. Focuses on the decisions a beginning teacher needs to make, such as selecting the
curriculum, identifying appropriate learning areas, finding intriguing learning materials, selecting comfortable furniture,
arranging the room, and deciding where to locate each learning area.
The Mod Pod.
Sturgeon, Julie School Planning and Management; v37 n4 , p49-53 ; Apr 1998
Explains how Project Oriented Development Stations (PODS) provide a flexible facilities solution that can fit within any elementary school, and that combines custom furnishing with technology, curriculum, and hands-on learning. An explanation of the POD approach and an example of its development, usefulness, and funding is provided.
Ergonomically Correct Classrooms: Consider Students Developmental Needs When Furnishing Your Schools.
Bushweller, Kevin Learning By Design; n7 , p18-20 ; Mar 1998
Explores the ergonomic needs of students within the classroom and the mistakes schools commonly make regarding classroom furniture. Several considerations are discussed for improving desk and chair design, particularly involving computer desks, and the proper use and placement of lighting.
Furniture for a Technology-Infused School.
Fickes, Michael School Planning and Management; v37 n2 , p26-28 ; Feb 1998
Discusses how one New Mexico school district weighed the choices in selecting
and purchasing computer furniture for its classrooms. The purchasing process is described, as well
as the types of, and reasons for, the furniture bought.
Variations of Sitting Posture and Physical Activity in Different Types of School Furniture.
Schroder, I. Coll Antropol; v21 n2 , p397-403 ; Dec 1997
Inadequate school furniture is frequently taken to be the reason of severe posture problems in adulthood. Therefore, chairs and desks used by children for considerable periods of time need to be evaluated carefully. In this study we investigated the postures and movement patterns of schoolchildren sitting on two distinctly different types of school furniture. The analysis of our observations and records showed numerous differences of movement patterns with respect to sex, age, and type of furniture. These results include overall movement frequencies, the possibility of choosing extreme postures in order to interrupt monotonous permanent positions, and freedom of movements for the legs. In general, the ordinary standardized school furniture under investigation turned out to meet the ergonomic demands better than a second type of furniture, which had been advertised to be especially "ergonomic". It can be concluded that the analysis of movement patterns offers additional criteria for the evaluation of the quality and suitability of school furniture. [Author's abstract]
TO ORDER:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query
Form Follows Function: Redesigning the School Library Media Center
Perry, Karen North Carolina Libraries; v55 n2 , p72-74 ; Summer 1997
Discusses factors in redesigning school library media centers: electronic
resources, electricity, furniture, lighting, and acoustics. Presents a case
study of Wake County (North Carolina) Schools and describes the
county standards for media center design and renovation for elementary,
middle, and high schools.
Finding Your Seat.
Spoor, Dana L. American School and University; v69 n9 , p30, 32 ; May 1997
Discusses the abandonment of the traditional school chair and desk for more flexible public school furniture and provides tips for making a transition that combines technological considerations with flexibility and quality. Furniture planning that fosters team learning is highlighted.
Successful Furniture Solutions.
Wright, Dorothy School Planning and Management; v36 n2 , p34,36,38,40 ; Feb 1997
Three educational institutions had markedly different furniture needs--home-style furniture for college
student residences, high-density storage for high school science labs, and computer lab furniture for a K-12 school
district. However, all used a systematic approach to purchasing that involved users, knowledgeable colleagues, and technical specialists.
Furnishing and Equipping New Educational Facilities
Hudson, Pegge Price Educational Facility Planner; v31 n3 ; May-Jun 1993
It is essential that the end users be involved and have input into the facility
planning process along with administrators and architects when furnishing and
equipping new educational facilities, according to the author. Only by including
them will you ensure that the furnishings and equipment, equally important
elements in a successful school, are appropriate to the needs, sized correctly,
and are practical, functional, and durable. Also addressed are percentages and
costs; accessory items; and funding.
Human Factors
Engineering and School
Furniture: A Circular
Odyssey
Lane, Kenneth; Richardson, Michael Educational Facility Planner; v31 n3 ; May-Jun 1993
This article is a call to action by the authors to determine the best design for
student furniture based on human factors engineering research. Listed are three
steps which they contend, if taken, will break the cycle of schools ordering and
manufacturers producing the same furniture as they always have simply because
"that's the way it's always been done." Based on the limited amount of available
research in the field and the implications or steps they list, the authors offer five
recommendations to change this important but static area of facilities planning.
References are included.
Ergonomic Considerations for the Human Environment: Color Treatment, Lighting, and Furniture Selection
Robertson, Michelle M. School Library Media Quarterly; v20 n4 , p211-215 ; 07/01/1992
Discusses ergonomic design considerations for library media centers. Specific variables examined include temperature, humidity, noise, illumination, color, and windows. Also presents computer workstation design requirements and related issues such as furniture and keyboard design, monitor and display features, software issues, and environmental and stress issues.
Interior Design's Role in Educational
Specifications
Keller, Mary Ann Educational Facility Planner; v24 n1 ; Jan-Feb 1986
This article suggests the importance of good interior design has been
underplayed in school projects and should be considered by planners and
architects. Because of cost constraints this valuable service has been deleted
from school projects. Interior design can provide furniture & furnishings within
the budget at the same time addressing the aesthetics of the project.
Criteria for Selecting
School Furniture and
Equipment for the
Disabled
Abend, Allen C. Educational Facility Planner; v12 n6 ; Nov-Dec 1974
This article provides
many practical design criteria for school furniture and equipment developed from observations and interviews with disabled persons
and individuals experienced in working with environmental problems. Ten
guidelines are given for areas, such as, furniture, railings, fixtures, signage, and
equipment. Abend notes that the design ideas are "equally applicable for the
average person."
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