Learning Resources

Abstract: Teaching in colleges and universities is going through a revolution brought on by changes in the student-teacher relationship, the volume of new sources of information and knowledge, and new electronic technology. All have implications for facilities planning. Three principles should be kept in mind when planning instructional space. First, "plan for the full range of teaching modalities." All classrooms need not be high-tech. Second, "plan for change and flexiblity." Technology changes rapidly. Third, "focus on the exchange of ideas and the acquisition of knowledge," not the latest technology." There are also six variables to keep in mind in teaching facilities design. These include "the different delivery modes of education material, the size of the class to which the material is delivered, lecture/video or discussion/interactive format, form of computer instruction, self-paced learning modalities, discipline-specific laboratories or classrooms." It is also helpful to consider two categories of classrooms: larger, fixed design spaces and smaller, flexible design spaces. Fixed-design rooms include conventional large lecture halls, tiered classrooms, and camera-equipped classrooms. It is most important to determine the appropriate mix and arrangement before beginning any classroom modernization program. In this way, focus can remain on the teaching, not the hardware.

Abstract: Book review: The Facilities Audit: A Process for Improving Facilities Conditions, by Harvey Kaiser. Association of Higher Eudcation Facilities Officers (Alexandria, VA.), 1993. 102 pages. ISBN 0-913359-71-8

Abstract: Subtitles: The new outlook; Advantages of a merger; What kind of planning? Pull quotes: "You can count on one hand those created by merger." "They are planning with the aid of mergers." "Battles can rage as the institutions negotiate.

Abstract: Viewpoint Subtitles: Who are higher education's new critics?; Even Rorty was riled; Goodbye to reason?; Universities as a political battleground. Pull quotes: "The professoriate is now deeply divided about the worth of freedom." "The Marxist animus has found a new home." "There is inchoate theorizing and no end of critical sneers." "We have a crisis of belief, of standards, of shared assumptions." "The actors don't want a better curriculum, they want a political one."

Abstract: Book Review: Office Access, by The Understanding Business. Harper Collins, 1992. 94 pages. ISBN 006-277-061-6.

Abstract: The landscape of a campus is often what makes it memorable. Landscape can unify a campus and represent a college's devotion to stewardship of the land. It is helpful to look at three main landscape designs: hard surface areas, site furniture, and soft surface areas. A balance must be achieved between hard paved and soft, grassy surfaces. Among concerns that must be dealt with are the proper width for pedestrian paths, disabled access, the cost of various paving materials, and the encroachment of vehicular traffic and parking. Colleges and universities should have site furniture that is unified, consistent, and compatible with the campus architecture and the values of the institution. Barbecue areas near dormitories, trash receptacles, security lighting, and quality of signage have all become increasingly important or popular. Planning of soft surface areas contributes greatly to the beauty of the campus; however, environmental concerns have made sustainability a goal. Trees must be carefully planned, yet with regard to ordered plantings, tree replacement planning is a must. To support funding for a high-quality campus landscape, it takes a commitment from administrators, trustees, and leading faculty. With such a commitment, a natural environment that nurtures the scholarly life can be created .