Discusses an experiment on controlling library noise by rearrangement of furniture groupings and the separation of existing clusters of furniture. While electromechanical tests showed no significant differences, user measures indicated more acceptable noise levels. There are numerous illustrations and 30 references. (RAA)

Two experiments involving 17 below-academic-level second graders and 32 normally achieving seventh graders indicated that row formation seating arrangements were superior to two types of table arrangements. Table formation appeared to lead to more disruptive behavior. (CL)

Offers suggestions for selecting school library furniture and equipment. Describes various models of computer workstations; reading tables and chairs; and shelving. Sidebar lists names and addresses of library furniture manufactures and distributors. (AEF)

Describes the restoration to original form of a modern, semicircular dormitory lounge at Vassar College, which was designed by Eero Saarinen in the 1950s. (EV)

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…

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. (EV)

John Burroughs was a poet-naturalist who spent most of his life during the late 1800s and early 1900s living in a rustic cabin that he built almost entirely from native materials. Burroughs suggested that becoming a good observer of nature was a function of the whole person and the power of concentrated attention, and not of the eyes alone. (LP)

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 minimizing use of built-in casework for administrative stations and offices. (GR)

Provides four examples of how colleges have incorporated the marketplace into their food service operations as one way of attracting new students. Dining room design features discussed include furniture selection and servery and serving-platform design. (GR)

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. (GR)

Discusses considerations in flooring, wiring, and furniture when remodeling classrooms for the information age. Conversion planning stages are addressed. (GR)

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. (GR)

Explains how furniture selection for residence halls depends on the space available, the function it is intended to serve, and the types of students who live there. Discusses the creation of a home-like atmosphere, including instituting regulations that let students supply some of their own furniture. (GR)

Presents suggestions for setting up a classroom that is organized, efficient, and welcoming, focusing on the following elements: the conference table, individual work trays, flower arrangements, a small rug area, paper files, folder storage, book bags, reading baskets, the teacher's chair and easel, a meeting area, and low-level tables. (SM)

The physical environment has been the focal point of many recent innovative changes in educational facilities. Public acceptance of open space schools as a response to changing educational philosophies has generally been favorable. A problem, however, is not the planning and construction of new schools, but the modernization of existing ones. A…