Developed primarily from field based research on 19 schools, the book is designed to help facility planners, educational administrators, educators, architects, and citizens make informed choices in planning new or renovated facilities for special education services. The design guidelines are performance based so that intended outcome is given as the criterion rather than the means for achieving that outcome. Chapter 1 examines current directions of special education and the delivery of services for exceptional learners. Basic concepts behind special education programs are outlined. The second chapter deals with the educational facility planning process. Long range educational facility planning is addressed, and planning for new or renovated facilities is discussed. Consideration is given to the facility planning committee, their roles and responsibilities, a participatory model for involvement, organizing the planning process, and steps in the facility planning process. Chapter 3 contains design criteria which are organized into two sections: general building design criteria which is related to the building in its entirety (including accessibility, furniture and equipment, and lighting); and design criteria by special education services (which involve curriculum services and such related services as physical therapy). Chapter 4 is an annotated listing of additional readings directly related to facility design programing or planning. (SBH)