NCEF Resource List: Signage for Schools
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SIGNAGE FOR SCHOOLS

NCEF's resource list of documents, reports, links, books, and journal articles about signage and wayfinding for school buildings and grounds.


References to Books and Other Media
Safe Schools Design Guidelines: Recommendations For a Safe and Secure Environment in Florida's Public Schools. CPTED Design Guidelines.
http://www.fccdr.usf.edu/upload/Projects/safeschool/safesc/
(University of South Florida, for the Florida Department of Education, Tampa, FL, 2005)
Contains CPTED guidelines (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) for Florida. The section on environs includes detailed information on location,edge conditions, and connection with the neighborhood. The section on site design covers landscaping, exterior pedestrian routes, vehicular routes and parking areas, recreational areas, signage and stormwater. Building interior spaces are also addressed. 55 p.


School Traffic Calming Toolbox
http://www.saratoga.ca.us/pdf/stcp.pdf
(Saratoga, California, 2004)
The City of Saratoga, California, in partnership with parents and school districts, have developed a program to plan and manage school traffic. This program guide provides the tools to assist in developing a traffic management plan for individual schools and includes sections on monitoring and enforcement, signage, site improvements and pedestrian safety. 50p


Creating a User Friendly Library With Signage: Selected Bibliography.
http://web.nmsu.edu/~ebosman/signage/biblio.shtml
Bosman, Ellen
(New Mexico State University Library, Las Cruces, 2004)
Extensive bibliography of articles and books on wayfinding in libraries, signs and the disabled, informational graphics, and more. 6p.


Branded Environments. Defining the Restructured High School Campus.
http://www.newvisions.org/schools/downloads/brandedenvir2007.pdf
Rubin, Adam; Gunton, Brad
(New Visions for Public Schools, New York, NY , 2004)
Using New York City's former South Bronx High School as an example, this document discusses techniques for distinguishing by graphics the small schools that share a large building. These include exterior banners and signage that feature distinctive typefaces, colors, and symbols. 34p.


The Impact of Color on Learning.
http://web.archive.org/web/20040218065036/
Engelbrecht, Kathie
(Perkins & Will, Chicago, IL , Jun 18, 2003)
Presents a compliation of studies conducted by color psychologists, medical, and design professionals. Biological reaction to colors affects vision, mood, and productivity. Thoughtful use of color also aids in wayfinding. Color suggestions for different age groups and room type are offered. (Includes 14 references.) 5p.


Phoenix School Safety Program.
http://www.walkinginfo.org/cps/saferoutes_phoenix.htm
(School Safety Task Force, Phoenix Street Transportation Department, Phoenix, AZ, May 2003)
These are recommendations for improving safety conditions in front of schools and at school-related crosswalks. Includes a school crossing safety audit; information on the installation of school pavement stencils, fluorescent yellow-green school warning signs, and staggered crosswalks; procedures for student drop-off/pick-up procedures in school parking lots; and suggestions for safe walking plans, automated enforcement of speed limits at schools, and experimental traffic control.


Wayfinding: You Are Here/You Are There.
http://www.eric.ed.gov/contentdelivery
Gommel, Jacqueline
(In: Eyes on the Future: Converging Images, Ideas, and Instruction. Selected Readings from the Annual Conference of the International Visual Literacy Association, Chicago, IL., 1995)
This paper discusses research on "wayfinding" and the need for designers and planners to recognize its importance in order to provide more user-friendly environments. Orientation is the first step in successful wayfinding. Through images, names, and meanings, the concept of a sense of place can be grasped. Cognitive mapping is the process that enables individuals to mentally organize or comprehend stimuli; cognitive maps are formed by information from the environment which is obtained from the five senses. Research in urban planning, environmental psychology, sociology, architecture, interior design, and environmental graphic design has proven that wayfinding is not only a complex process, but a critical design issue involving several disciplines. Designers must be able to communicate different types of information to different types of users. Elements of an effective wayfinding system include: (1) spaces that are visually distinctive; (2) points of reference; (3) a building layout that is easy to understand and remember; (4) memorable landmarks; (5) signs, symbols, directories, and maps; (6) staff who are well-trained in giving instructions. (Contains 21 references.) 8p.
ERIC NO: ED391521 ;


Directional and Informational Signs for Educational Facilities. A Selected Bibliography.
(OEC, 1970)
Many of the references in this bibliography are followed by a listing of ERIC descriptors to indicate the contents. The literature is pertinent to educational facilities design in providing for visual orientation, comprehension, and response to the physical environment. Listed items are presented in two sections: (1) human physiological, psychological, and sociological requirements for visual performances; and (2) the design of visual communications. 14p.
ERIC NO: ED040511 ;


References to Journal Articles
This Must Be the Place.
http://athleticbusiness.com/articles/article.aspx?articleid=1597&zoneid=10
Cohen, Andrew
Athletic Business; v31 n8 , p32-34,36,38,40 ; Aug 2007
Discusses environmental graphics and design for athletic facilities that enhance wayfinding as well as reinforce awareness of the institution's team mascot and colors. Advice on working with an architect/environmental design team is included.


Finding the Way.
http://asumag.com/Construction/signage/university_finding_2/
Coss, Gretchen
American School and University; v79 n13 , p155-157 ; Aug 2007
Reviews the advantages of quality signage and environmental graphics on campuses, emphasizing the welcoming qualities of easy wayfinding, branding opportunities through signage, and the creation of a sense of place through cohesive graphics.


Post It.
http://asumag.com/Construction/signage/university_post/
Townsend, Drue
American School and University; v79 n13 , p166-169 ; Aug 2007
Reviews the good return on investment offered by quality school signage in conspicuous places. Signage for wayfinding, safety, and school morale is covered, and a checklist for signage selection, design, placement, and budgeting is included.


Designing a Unified Campus.
http://www.universitybusiness.com/viewarticle.aspx?articleid=772
Geller, Joseph; Corning, Robert
University Business; v10 n5 , p68-71 ; May 2007
Discusses elements that contribute to a unified campus, including architecture, landscaping, signage, paving, circulation systems, outdoor furnishings and accessories, fencing, and lighting. Motivation and timing for undertaking a campus unification plan are discussed, with particular emphasis on inclusion of campus unification in the institution's master plan.


Digital Signage
http://campustechnology.com/articles/46403/
Villano, Matt
Campus Technology; Apr 01, 2007
This describes a whole new way to communicate news and information to students and other campus members, using digital displays.


Three Keys to a Successful Signage Program.
Kollie, Ellen
College Planning and Management; v10 n2 , p42,44,46,48,49 ; Feb 2007
Details three features of a successful campus signage program, using Brandeis University as an example. Signage as part of campus planning, identification of campus decision makers, and special consideration for first-time campus visitors are recommended.


Digital Signage: Lighting the Way.
http://www.universitybusiness.com/ViewArticle.aspx?articleid=574
Angelo, Jean
University Business; v9 n9 , p62-66 ; Oct 2006
Describes digital signage in schools that gives directions, makes announcements, and generates revenue by selling space to advertisers.


Signs and Signage.
http://www.peterli.com/archive/spm/1146.shtm
Dolan, Thomas
School Planning and Management; v45 n6 , p44-46 ; Jun 2006
Describes the virtues of LED technology to school signage. LED technology produces fixtures that are durable, can be changed frequently, are becoming more affordable, and offer advantages to the visually impaired.


Signing the Way.
http://www.peterli.com/archive/cpm/1152.shtm
Kollie, Ellen
College Planning and Management; v9 n6 , p49-53 ; Jun 2006
Discusses the importance of good signage for wayfinding and contributing to a campus identity. Five items to consider when embarking on a signage plan are included.


In Case of Emergency, Show Occupants the Door
http://www.facilitiesnet.com/bom/article.asp?id=2638
Windle, Lynn Proctor
Building Operating Management; Mar 2005
When the electricity goes out and a building must be evacuated, photoluminescent technology could be the guiding light that leads tenants to safety.


Who You Are Is as Important as Where You Are.
Kidwell, Dan
College Planning and Management; v8 n2 , p46,48-51 ; Feb 2005
Advocates proper wayfinding and "branding" in campus signage, stressing care and uniformity with elements of color, materials, organization of information, and coordination with the marketing department.


Digital Signage Delivers on Campus
http://www.universitybusiness.com/page.cfm?p=634
Angelo, Jean Marie
University Business; Oct 2004
Affordable wide-screen digital signs are finding multiple uses on campuses, and may even generate revenue. If there's a sale in the bookstore, a new cell phone plan for students, or a concert on campus, a digital sign can deliver the message. Even better, that message can be punched up with animated logos, photos, video clips, and text messages that change every few seconds. This includes tech tips and terms, and a list of digital signage companies.


A Lot of Planning.
http://asumag.com/mag/university_lot_planning/
Rich, David
American School and University; v76 n10 , p36b,38b,40b,42b ; May 2004
Describes design features of safer parking structures, including open visibility, lighting, signage, CCTV, and landscaping.


Finding Your Way.
http://asumag.com/mag/university_finding/
Styles-Lopez, Robin L.
American School and University; v76 n3 , p304-06 ; Nov 2003
Outlines elements of planning, signage and numbering schemes that enable easy wayfinding within educational facilities.


The Colors of Crisis.
http://asumag.com/mag/university_colors_crisis/
Hull, Bob
American School and University; v74 n1 , p44-45 ; Sep 2001
Presents tips on how to make school emergency communication procedures more efficient and effective. Highlights use of simple codes, and offers advice on staff training and emergency drills.


Feeling Right at Home on a Big Ten Campus.
Corbin, Jeffry
College Planning and Management; v4 n5 , p44-46 ; May 2001
Examines why Penn State's wayfinding program wins high marks from students and visitors alike. The school's combination of major boundary markers, kiosks, lighting, and identification signs is discussed. [Free registration required]


Scoreboards: Timing Sports Events for More Than 65 Years.
Childerson, Shelly S.
School Planning and Management; v39 n10 , pAF4-AF5 ; Oct 2000
Provides a brief history of game scoreboards, including improvements in their technology. Scoreboard standards, safety, and outdoor scoreboard technology are addressed.


This Way Out.
http://www.peterli.com/archive/cpm/50.shtm
Wright, Dorothy
College Planning and Management; v3 n4 , p33-34,36 ; Apr 2000
Discusses new technology in life safety lighting and exit signs that provides safer educational facilities at reduced costs. Exit sign light source cost comparisons are highlighted.


Campus Signs: Delivering the Message.
Chance, Barbara J.
College Planning and Management; v1 n6 , p47 ; Nov 1998
Discusses campus signage and the image it gives to visitors about the institution itself, as well as ways to evaluate existing sign systems to determine if they are properly conveying the messages intended. How design, graphics, colors, logos, fabrication, and location support the principal function of signs, not detract from them, is explored.


Following the Signs.
http://asumag.com/mag/university_following_signs/
American School and University; v70 n9 , p56-57 ; May 1998
Discusses meeting ADA guidelines when purchasing permanent signs for schools. ADA guidelines are provided and the use of raised characters and braille are discussed. It notes that ADA guidelines are not building codes: noncompliance is enforced through the Justice Department.


Signs of Success.
http://asumag.com/mag/university_signs_success/
Styles-Lopez, Robin
American School and University; v70 n9 , p48, 50 ; May 1998
Explains how to make a well-designed signage package that is effective and enhances visitor first impressions of an institution. Questions to ask when planning traffic pattern signage and the significance of the different hierarchy of signs are examined concluding with advice on signage design.


The ADA and Public Schools
Joffee, E.
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness; v88 n3 , p.6-7 ; May-Jun 1994
The requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concerning public school building accessibility are summarized. Requirements discussed include facility design and braille and raised letter signs.


Related Web Sites
Athletic Business
http://www.athleticbusiness.com/
The Athletic Business Web site includes a product database on "Building and Facility Components" which lists manufacturers of such components as acoustical panels, building systems, gymnasium dividers, locker room equipment, lighting, scoreboards, indoor seating, security, signage, etc. Also features an architectural showcase of award-winning athletic facilities, and links to recreation and fitness sites.


Library Signs and Displays
http://www.librarysupportstaff.com/libsigns.html
This webpage describes signage in libraries and provides a list of resources. This is from a website for library support staff.


School Safety Program [Florida]
http://www.co.broward.fl.us/traffic/tei01102.htm
The Traffic Engineering program of Broward County, Florida includes "Designated Safe Walk Routes" and "Traffic Patterns". Traffic patterns, as they relate to school staff, school busses, parents and students are evaluated and modified, when necessary, to facilitate safety at all schools. Designated pick-up/drop off areas have been established on-site to ensure the safety of students. Staff installs and maintains school signage, flashers, and pavement markings around each school for the safety of students and motorists.


Signs of the Times
http://www.stmediagroup.com/index.php3?d=pubs&p=st
Website for the Signs of the Times magazine, a leading source of comprehensive sign-industry news, technical information, and in-depth analysis. Includes an online bookstore.


SignWeb.com
http://www.signweb.com/
This commercial site is a one-stop resource for sign information, including product news, sign links, gallery, book store, the latest technology, and service suppliers.



Related Resource Lists
Accessibility in School and University Facilities
http://www.edfacilities.org/rl/accessibility.cfm
(National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities, Washington, DC)
NCEF's resource list of links, books, and journal articles on how school and university buildings and grounds can accommodate students with disabilities, including references to federal requirements.


School Safety and Security--PK-12 Facilities Issues
http://www.edfacilities.org/rl/safety_security.cfm
(National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities, Washington, DC)
NCEF's resource list of links, books, and journal articles on designing safer PK-12 schools, implementing security technologies, and crime prevention through environmental design.