Learning Resources

Abstract: Book Review: Why Buildings Fall Down: How Structures Fail, Matthys Levy and Mario Salvadori. W.W. Norton, 1992. 314 pages.

Abstract: Book Review: Strategic Planning for University Research, edited by Oliver Hensley. Texas Tech University Press, 1992. 446 pages.

Abstract: Viewpoint Subtitles: Canadian university buildings; Buildings for people to use; Are people necessary?; Beauty without utility; The vital trinity; Pull quotes: "There is no longer an accepted canon of architectural principles." "The users of the building were scarcely mentioned." "Bad architecture is more than an aesthetic matter. It spoils people's day-to-day lives." "Everybody wants to be a star." "Architecture is now considered one of the plastic arts." "A good architect is above all a builder." "For the architect--builder context is always a challenge."

Abstract: Viewpoint Subtitles: Theory of the leisure class; Chaos in education too. Pull quotes: "The aim should not be what is new but what is good."

Abstract: College and university music buildings are different from other campus buildings. They require advanced acoustical planning to control sound and noise, specialized design and construction, and additional cost. The different design features behoove the institution to initiate early and advanced acoustical planing for the sound of music. The initial acoustical planning issue is who will use the building and how. Normally, this includes community groups, and music and theater groups. A second concern is an effective design of the centerpiece of every music education facility--the recital hall. A third consideration is cost. Campus music buildings' outlay is twice the amount of institutional classrooms. A fourth issue is whether the facilities provide an appropriate music enviroment. Music buildings must enhance teaching, practice, rehearsal, and recording. Finally, there are design issues such as room acoustics: do they provide "sound and vibration isolation from internal and external noise" and do they filter mechanical system noise? Essentially acoustical planning for university music facilities is an important aspect of campus planning.

Abstract: Book Review: Involving Colleges: Successful Approaches to Fostering Student Learning and Development Outside the Classroom, by George Kuh, John Schuh, adn Elizabeth Whitt, and Associates. Jossey-Bass, 1991. 453 pages.

Abstract: Book review: Marketing Higher Education: A Handbook for College Adminstrators, by George Dehne, David Brodigan, and Peter Topping. Consortium for the Advancement of Private Higher education, 1991. 124 pages.

Abstract: Campus signage has seldom been a design prioirity at colleges and universities, yet prospective students, guest faculty, speakers, adult education class attendees, and others must find their way around an unfamiliar campus. In recent years, a new kind of graphic designer has come into being. These are enviromental graphic designers; they are fimiliar with signage needs and provide a comprehensive process, from environmental analysis to construction details. Campus signage is not only about directional information, but also aesthetics and image. There are many varied and heated opinions about signage, so it is best to assemble the smallest possible decision-making group to work with the designer. This group, however, must remain in contact with the many other interested parties. Good sign design has the following elements: (1) "the sign format," (2) "fabrication materials," (3) "type style," (4) "the graphic layout," (5) "colors of the sign," and (6) "location of the signs." Another issue to consider is the effect of the Americans with Disablities Act. While this has few implications for exterior signage, it has very specific requirements for interior signage, such as Braille, letter size, and contrast. If an institution makes signage a priority, clear integrated campus signs can be as important as landscaping and quality architecture to a newcomer. More than anything, good signage is a mark of courtesy to all who use the campus.